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The most reliable indicator of pecan tree fertility is the foliage (O.S.U. Facts Sheet 6232). A chemical analysis can save money on fertilizer, but the sample must be taken correctly at the proper time. Each sample should represent soil and a uniform set of trees or management practices. Different orchards and soils should be sampled separately.
Sampling Guides
1. Take leaf samples in July.
2. Do not mix varieties into one sample.
3. Collect 100 leaflets for each sample.
4. Select the central pair of leaflets located on the middle leaf of the current season's growth.
5. Select leaves from shoots accessible from the ground or vehicle and located on different sides of the trees. Do not collect leaflets from suckers, water sprouts, or from branches that do not receive sunlight.
6. Do not use galvanized containers, rubber gloves, or rubber sponges to collect, carry or store samples.
7. Remove spray residue and dirt by washing or dipping leaves in tap water for one minute or less.
8. After washing leaflets, spread them out to air-dry until they will crumble. Don't expose to direct sun or allow to heat in a bag while drying.
9. Place dry leaflets in a sample bag and bring to lab. Do not bring wet or undried leaves.
10. Provide identification for each sample when presenting to lab.
See Also: Plant Nutition Analysis: Grower Information Sheet (pdf)