To properly manage a successful pecan orchard, a well-developed plan should be implemented. Planning will help growers and managers be prepared for tasks that will need to be addressed throughout the year. This calendar can be used as a resource to help with planning.
November
Harvest
Continue to harvest your pecans.
Orchard Maintenance
Mark trees for removal that are damaged, and have small or undesirable pecans.
Pecan Nut Show
Select the best examples of each nut cultivar and submit to the local or state show. Learn more about the Oklahoma State Pecan Show at bit.ly/opga-show.
December
Harvest
Continue to harvest your pecans.
Orchard Maintenance
Mark for removal damaged trees and those with small or undesirable pecans.
January
Harvest
Continue harvest if needed.
Floor Maintenance
Complete needed ground work like tilling and packing (to smooth any rough spots on the orchard floor), remove debris left over from harvest, etc.
Graftwood
Collect graftwood while the trees are dormant. For more information on graftwood collection practices, visit bit.ly/storing-pecan-wood.
Equipment Maintenance
Once harvest is complete, clean and perform any equipment maintenance needed before storing.
Orchard Maintenance
Remove trees marked the previous year for removal.
Planting
Start planting trees.
Pruning
Decisions will depend on the age of the tree.
- Young trees (trees not in production): Train to a central leader. Remove competing leaders and weak crotches.
- Older trees (trees that are producing): Remove damaged branches and low hanging branches that interfere with tree management.
