The tree can also be supplemented with 1/10 lb. All rights reserved. Pecan trees need 1 to 2 inches of rain or irrigation water per week. The optimum pH range for pecan trees is 6.0 to 6.5. May be used as a soil additive or fast-acting foliar spray. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator and employer. All Rights Reserved. Fertilize pecan trees in early spring with a 10-10-10 fertilizer that also contains 2% zinc sulfate. Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →, Alabama A&M Auburn Universities: Seven Resaons Pecan Trees Don;t Prodcue Fruit. Cast under the drip line of the tree, nestle into the top 1 to 2 inches of soil and water the soil until soaked 2 to 3 inches down to begin to percolate the zinc down into the soil. Pruning encourages both upward and lateral growth to make the most of sunshine and make for easier tree management. How Tell the Difference Between Snap Peas & English Peas Vegetable Garden. Apply half the 34-0-0 in April and the remainder in June.”. He is a member of the Society of American Foresters. The planting site should be at least 30' from any buildings, other big trees or power lines. Any plant must be actively growing for fertilizer to be of any use. This fertilizer is formulated to aid trees in producing more fruits and citrus, promote quicker growth and plant strength. Websites UGA-affiliated sites. NOTE: This is part 9 in a series of 11 articles. Besides adequate fertilization, Hutcheson says backyard pecan trees need proper sanitation. (2012) 2 ppm=parts per million (equal to milligrams per gram) Homeowner. The Alabama Contact Extension Mobile County Office Amelia M. Mitchell; County Extension Coordinator; Jon Archer Agricultural Center, 1070 Schillinger Rd., N. Mobile, AL 36608-5298 ; Phone: (251) 574-8445; Hours: … For pear trees, make sure to fertilize if they're growing less than 6 inches per year. A soil test is the best way to know the pH of the soil and how much lime to apply. © 2020 by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Trees should also be at least 15' from driveways or … per tree per year. Improved cultivars generally need more fertilizer than native/seedling pecan trees because they often produce larger nuts and have greater overall yields (Tables 3 and 4). What Causes Rust on Grass? Alabama is prime pecan growing territory, but for the trees to bear large fruit harvests consistently, an annual regimen of fertilizing must be followed. Do you accept? Pecan trees can also be initially planted at a high density on 30-foot to 35-foot centers, 36 to 49 trees per acre, with some of the trees being temporary and some permanent. "This debris provides a home for pests, and you definitely don't want pests." Nitrogen and Mature Trees In mature pecan trees over 7 years of age, Texas A&M University suggests a single application of 1 lb. Recommendations for Pecan Trees M. Elena Garcia General Fertilizer Associate Professor - Recommendations Fruits and Nuts Soil tests should be conducted Dan Chapman prior to planting and should be used Resident Director, solely as an initial guide for fertilizer Fruit Substation recommendations for pecan trees. When to fertilize nut trees is an important issue. No food plants should never have bare soil in the root zone, but should always be covered with native shredded mulches and/or native grasses and legumes. You may be wondering how to fertilize peach trees and what is the best peach tree fertilizer. For new pecan growers, a wise strategy is to start small and expand in phases. In years where crop is large, apply a supplemental application in August, using 1/2 the rates above, except omitting the lime. Trees should also be at least 15' from driveways or roads to allow moisture and air to reach the roots. Pecan trees are wind pollinated. Such problems often mimic disease . Smith Farm Supply custom blends and bags a 15-11-11 pecan fertilizer with 2% zinc. Nov 12, 2020. When to Fertilize Trees The quick answer: Fertilize your trees in the Spring and Fall. Please review our Privacy Statement for more information. Chip also said growers can have a leaf analysis done. That’s why we need to fertilize our trees with a slow-release fertilizer – to mimic nature. It may be better not to fertilize at all than to feed your tree at the wrong time. One of the best ways to promote good health in pecan trees in establishing a proper fertilizing program. Most all the trees on my property are elm, but this is the only one doing this. of zinc per year in July or August. When planting pecan trees, or any other trees, do not put fertilizer in the planting hole. In recent years, container-grown pecan trees have become available for the home gardener. Apply 1 lb. Pecans are rather hard to get to sprout from seeds and harder to move them to another location. Despite its bounteous gifts, some people consider the pecan a hassle, because it’s a messy thing, what with dropping copious amounts of twigs, leaves, and fruit every fall. When to Fertilize Nut Trees. Certified Arborists Tree Doctor. Do not fertilize after July because the rapid new growth can make your tree subject to frost damage later in the year. Early spring and early fall are ideal times for fertilization. the spread of the pecan tree root system eventually reaches 1-1/2 to 2 times that of the branches. Spraying Pecan Trees. Exercise care when using this method, because excess fertilizer could injure lawn grasses. I have two large trees and they have always produced more than I could ever use or even give away. Deep water the pecan tree daily for the first month, as it is establishing itself. Fertilize backyard pecan trees in June and September, too. This statement is true, in general, but soils vary in chemical composition, and a nutrient believed to be at adequate levels may be lacking in some soils. of zinc sulphate. separate male and female flowers) (Figure 1). The amount of fertilizer needed by a pecan tree depends on its size, age (young and smaller trees respond more to nitrogen fertilizer), production (the heavier the crop, the greater the response to fertilizer application), and soil type (pecan trees in sandy soils respond faster to nitro-gen fertilizer). Home grown peaches are a treat. Apply half the amount of fertilizer you intend to use about a month or so prior to what is typically the last frost date in your area in late winter or early spring. The northern pecan growers blog spot recommends an... Home; About; Ask a Question; Sign in; Fall pecan tree fertilizing . Pruning Ornamental Trees . Asked October 19, 2015, 11:56 AM EDT. Q: I would like to know how to fertilize my pecan trees. the pecan tree’s root system invades a large volume of soil, it has been assumed that pecan trees need not re-ceive some nutrients in large amounts, i.e., potassium, phosphorus, calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). Although there’s nothing essentially wrong with this, many experts are now suggesting that late fall, about a month after the first killing frost, is a better time. Pecan trees are native to the United States, where they thrive in Southern locations with a long growing season. How to Fertilize a Tree You do not need to remove mulch to fertilize! The Experts Recommendations Pecan Cultivar Recommendations for the Southeast – 2014-15 Update. Generally, the ideal time to fertilize nut tree is in spring just before new growth begins. that ensures all people have access to information that improves their quality of life Ground Covers for Alabama Landscapes . Apply half the 34-0-0 in April and the remainder in June.” The optimum pH range for pecan trees is 6.0 to 6.5. Fertilizing Season for Fruit Trees. The list is provided for the convenience of pecan growers. Bare-root or packaged pecan trees can be transplanted anytime during the dormant season, but late fall and early winter is the best time. Slow Release 10-10-10 Fertilizer. Two inches are recommended in late season to fill out the nuts and stimulate shuck opening. Usually the spread of the pecan tree root system eventually reaches 1-1/2 to 2 times that of the branches. Best Time to Fertilize Trees. When to fertilize a pecan tree? Homemade Stepping Stones Ideas Lawn Ornaments. Fertilizing Native Pecan Groves Native pecan trees use less fertilizer per acre or tree than improved varieties. Do not disturb the soil before applying the fertilizer. If no soil test was done, use a general rate of about 1 pound of 16-4-8 or 1 1/2 pounds of 12-6-6 fertilizer distributed in a 25-square-foot area around the tree. This will get the fertilizer out to a range where the roots can take the nutrients up without the fertilizer causing tree damage. Look for signs that your tree is lacking nutrients in the soil. How to fertilize Live Oaks. “It is always important to have a soil analysis done to determine what elements are already present and what other elements are needed,” East said. Cast the fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the tree, beginning at least 2 feet from the trunk and extending at least 2 feet past the drip line of the canopy. For additional information on pecans or to attend a pecan class, contact your county Extension office. A proper and consistent spray schedule is important to the survival of your trees. Two inches of rainfall during the first two weeks of September will improve pecan quality. An adequate water application reduces tree stress and potential shuck problems, including pre-harvest sprouting, sticktights, stem end blight, sticky shuck, and more. In order to fertilize fruit trees safely, you want to get what is called a balanced fertilizer. Or better yet, talk to a local pecan tree farmer. From diseases to pests, many potential issues can be prevented with spraying before they even begin! “For large trees, apply all of the fertilizer in April. Visit www.aces.edu/directory. Once fruit begins to grow, start fertilizing the tree each year with fertilizer with a 10-10-10 ratio. Proper pruning practices start with pruning at the right time of year. Fertilize mature fruit trees at least twice per year. Apply the fertilizer in the spring, just before the new buds on the tree open. If left unattended, they will grow into large, unsightly bushes. Best offers for your Garden - https://amzn.to/2InnD0w-----How to Fertilize a Pecan Tree. Alabama is prime pecan growing territory, but for the trees to bear large fruit harvests consistently, an annual regimen of fertilizing must be followed. per tree per year. Pecans grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. Zinc nitrate, at a formulation of 2 to 4 tsp. The common wisdom on fertilizing trees has been to feed them in early spring, before active growth begins. Signs of Over Watering New Sod Growing Grass. from the trunk of the tree. Fertilizer Placement. Lets take a look at the steps for fertilizing peach trees. If you would like to purchase pecan trees, contact our pecan tree nursery, today! Alabama is prime pecan growing territory, but for the trees to bear large fruit harvests consistently, an annual regimen of fertilizing must be followed. Includes extensive resources on pecan growth and pest … Hi-Yield Pecan and Fruit Tree Fertilizer 12-4-4 is an excellent fertilizer for nuts and fruit trees, especially Pecans, effectively increasing fruit size and flavor. Oct 21, 2016 - A healthy pecan tree (Carya illinoinensis) growing in fertile soil produces a lush, full canopy of dark green leaves in spring and early summer. Do this three times a year; in late February, in June and in September, up to a maximum of 25 lbs. Cooperative Extension System, 1 pound of 13-13-13 per tree per year of age up to 25 pounds per tree, 1 pound of 34-0-0 per tree per year of age up to 20 pounds per tree, 1/10 pound of zinc sulfate per tree per year of age up to 2 pounds per tree. Instead, fertilize your peach tree about 8-12 inches (20-30 cm.) It should say something like 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. While two consecutive rainy seasons with much higher than normal incidence of scab have made it difficult for growers, the increased scab has provided an opportunity for better evaluation of pecan selections for resistance to this devastating disease. Foliar spraying of zinc on the new growth is the best method of application. If the tree grows in a fertilized lawn, this is usually the only general-purpose fertilizer application needed. For optimal results, do not fertilize a citrus tree during its first growing season with chemical fertilizers, because they can damage the root system. When a tree reaches the desired height you may want to decrease the fertilizer application to only once a year. Young pecan trees transplanted in deep, loamy, fertile soil may not need fertilizer additions immediately. Hi-Yield Pecan and Fruit Tree Fertilizer 12-4-4 is an excellent fertilizer for nuts and fruit trees, especially Pecans, effectively increasing fruit size and flavor. Often, when trees go long periods of time without fertilizer applications, growth becomes poor and leads to a reduction in nut production. For other types of fruit trees, withhold fertilizer until the tree begins to bear fruit. To reap its benefits, spraying should be done consistently and thoroughly following the guidelines below. Ferti-Lome Fruit, Citrus and Pecan Tree Food 19-10-5 is formulated to give your trees a unique mix of nutrients that make your trees grow and be more productive. If leaves become pale green to yellowish in midsummer, add … Scratch the fertilizer into the top 2 inches of soil and add 2 to 3 inc… Work it into the top few inches of soil and water until the soil is drenched 2 to 3 inches down but there is no standing water. The reader is referred to Goff (2015) for a description of cultivars in Alabama. UGA Pecan Team Blog The UGA Pecan Extension Blog is designed to provide timely information relevant to pecan production in Georgia for use by county extension agents and pecan producers.. Pecans at UGA Summarizes the history and recent production output of Georgia's pecan growers. A cocktail of nitrogen fertilizer plus trace nutrients and soil amendments applied in the spring and early summer in a cascade schedule will keep the tree healthy and productive. Pollination. The importance of Zinc for pecan trees. Nitrogen-based fertilizer applications can be applied at one time just before budbreak (March) or as a split application with half being applied in March and the other half in May. For younger trees, apply all of the 13-13-13 fertilizer and zinc in April. Fertilizing Pecan Trees In Alabama. Exercise care when using this method, because excess fertilizer could injure lawn grasses. Apply 4 lbs. For large, mature trees the fertilizer can be applied at one time in early March. Insufficient lime, nitrogen and zinc in the soil are common problems for pecan trees grown in Alabama. A pecan enterprise may fail if the orchard is too big or too small. Didn't find what you were looking for? “For large trees, apply all of the fertilizer in April. The fertilizer should list the N-P-K ratio somewhere on the label. Feb 11, 2012 - Alabama is prime pecan growing territory, but for the trees to bear large fruit harvests consistently, an annual regimen of fertilizing must be followed. of dolomitic lime for every year of the trees' age up to a maximum of 100 lbs per tree per year. Growers must have a cash flow plan for the 5- to 7-year … that point time trees are removed and we thin trees out until ultimately at maturity there are seven to eight trees per acre. Rather, provide a light application (1 pound per tree) of 10-10-10 (N-P 2 O 5 … Smith Farm Supply custom blends and bags a 15-11-11 pecan fertilizer with 2% zinc. Fertilizing Pecan Trees. 12-12-12 NPK) fertilizer per year will produce a nice result. Updated September 10, 2018 Ideally, growing trees should be fertilized throughout the year but a bit differently as trees age. Trees should be fertilized once a year, preferably in February. The staminate (male) flowers (also known as catkins) appear as fluffy, multi-lobed, finger-like projections. The use of a mechanical spreader may help ensure an even application of the fertilizers. of fertilizer for every inch of the trunk diameter, measured 4-1/2 feet up from the ground, up to a maximum application of 25 lbs. Cast the ammonium to cover the soil twice the size of the tree canopy. of dolomitic lime for every year of the trees' age up to a maximum of 100 lbs per tree per year. Droughts can reduce the availability of fertilizer to pecan trees. It's a good idea to consult with your local Extension Service agent to find out when is the best time to fertilize pecan trees in your area. When to Prune a Pecan Tree. Tree loops are usually 1/2″ or 3/8″ polyethylene pipe, 6-10 ft long initially, and contain one or two emitters. The ample amount of zinc in Ferti-Lome Fruit, Citrus and Pecan Tree Food 19-10-5 will help your pecan trees control rosette. Trees growing elsewhere benefit from a nitrogen fertilizer application in late spring, usually May or June. That said, not all trees need fertilizing. Pecans are large trees that have significant nutrient requirements. I would follow behind, filling the holes with 10-10-10. This fertilizer is formulated to aid trees in producing more fruits and citrus, promote quicker growth and plant strength. Steve Nix is a natural resources consultant and a former forest resources analyst for the state of Alabama. If you see these signs, fertilization can be part of a holistic approach to restoring your plant’s health . If you do nothing else to your pecans trees, water them on a regular basis, and apply zinc during the early growing season. Here's a Pecan Planting Guide with Tips. It took me a while to … Apply the fertilizer under the tree one foot from the trunk to slightly beyond the tips of the branches. Fertilizer should be applied by broadcasting over the root zone of the pecan tree. This content printed from the website located at: Fertilizing Pecan Trees Important for Overall Health. Lack of adequate nutrient availability can also weaken the tree and predispose it to diseases and other disorders. Apply 5 lbs. AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – Growing pecan trees can be tricky because of the many environmental factors that affect a tree’s health. ... How to Fertilize Pecan Trees in Alabama In addition, apply one pound of zinc sulfate (click for sources) to 4 – 10 year old trees and three to five pounds for large trees each year. When to Fertilize Grass in Florida Growing Grass. by Bill Goff. But trees transplanted in non-fertile, poorer soils may require several split applications of fertilizer beginning in June the year of transplanting. When To Fertilize Pecan Trees. It should be in full sun and provide good drainage. of fertilizer for every inch of the trunk diameter, measured 4-1/2 feet up from the ground, up to a maximum application of 25 lbs. East recommends applying the following: “Basically, if your trees are more than 25 years old, you need 25 pounds of 13-13-13, 20 pounds of 34-0-0, 2 pounds of zinc per tree each year,” East said. Four Ways to Improve Pecan Production on Trees Around Your Home . The pecan (Carya illinoinensis) is a large deciduous tree that is best known for its tasty nuts that are the star of many sweet and savory dishes. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System does not imply approval of buyers listed nor disapproval of any buyers which may not be listed. of nitrogen-based fertilizer for each inch of diameter of the trunk. This system will allow for the greater production of nuts early in the life of the orchard. of ammonium nitrate for every inch of trunk diameter, topping out at 20 lbs. Scratch it into the top 1 to 2 inches of soil and water deeply to soak the top 2 to 3 inches of soil. Weevils, wasps and scab. Trade and brand names used in this publication are given for information purposes only. Try to time this application just prior to rainfall, but not if the forecast is for torrential rainfall. Bareroot and container pecan trees for sale at our wholesale and retail pecan nursery. Pecan trees (Carya illinoensis) can be pruned in winter during dormancy or in summer. For more information, contact your county Extension office. This is known as the N-P-K ratio. If lime is needed, 50 pounds of lime per 1000 square feet is equivalent to one ton per acre. of zinc sulfate for every year of the trees' age up to 2 lbs. And trees whose roots have been damaged by trenching or construction, also should not be fertilized. Learn which plants thrive in your Hardiness Zone with our new interactive map! Steve Nix. King Brothers Pecans . About ½ cup (118 mL.) Apply 1/2 ammonium nitrate in April, half in June. We offer pecan trees for sale as well as pecan orchard development. And one way to ensure you get the best peaches possible from your tree is to make sure you are properly using fertilizer for peach trees. We have several northern cultivar pecan trees here at our residence near Strasburg. ALABAMA READY - Resources for Dealing with Hurricanes, Prioritize Cover Crops After Harvest Season, Alabama As your pecan trees begin to come into bearing age, it is essential to provide Zinc Sulphate as a feed during the spring. If the tree shows growth of more than a foot in a season, cut back the fertilizer the successive spring. A dams Pecan LLC 324 Ellis Street Union Springs, AL 36089 334-738-2220 John Adams. Fertilize pecan trees in early spring with a 10-10-10 fertilizer that also contains 2% zinc sulfate. Cast the fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the tree, beginning at least 2 feet from the trunk and extending at least 2 feet past the drip line of the canopy. Cast 1/10 lb. Cash flow: Establishing a commercial pecan orchard requires a significant capital investment for the land, equipment, irrigation well, water delivery system, and other special needs like wildlife-proof fencing. per tree. Apply 4 lbs. "This means, simply, keep the floor area around the tree clean of limbs, old nuts and leaves," he said. A cocktail of … No guarantee, endorsement, or discrimination among comparable products is intended or implied by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. This is a fertilizer made with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Fertilizer should be applied by broadcasting over the root zone of the pecan tree. We offer pecan trees for sale as well as pecan orchard development. per gallon of water and zinc sulphate, at 2 tsp. Give half the dose in April and the second half in June. While fertilizing peach trees right after they are planted is recommended, they only need a small amount of fertilizer at this time. A: I have strong memories of my Dad piercing the soil under our pecan with the sharpened tip of a buggy axle. The pecan nut the star of many classic dishes, and a tasty addition to many more. of fertilizer per year. For accurate determination of fertilizer and lime needs, take a soil sample prior to planting. Grasses That Tolerate Dogs Lawn Planting. Therefore, in order to ensure tree health and to produce Considerations for determining the size of the orchard include cash flow, equipment costs, and water availability. For younger trees, apply all of the 13-13-13 fertilizer and zinc in April. Pecan trees should be planted as soon as they are received. Two inches are recommended in late season to fill out the nuts and stimulate shuck opening. Best offers for your Garden - https://amzn.to/2InnD0w-----How to Fertilize a Pecan Tree. per gallon of water, should be sprayed every 2 weeks every year for the first 7 years. This type is superior to either bare-root or packaged. Smith Farm Supply Pecan Fertilizer Mix. Trees should be fertilized once a year, preferably in February. Lawn Maintenance. Pecan trees should be planted 40-50' apart if planting near to each other. Pecan trees also need adequate amounts of zinc and benefit from regular treatments with a zinc solution. We have several northern cultivar pecan trees here at our residence near Strasburg. Everyone is welcome! Nut trees should be fertilized at the same time each year. TRANSPLANTING PECAN TREES : This is the accumulation of knowledge about transplanting pecan trees I have gained in 40 tears on my 15 acres in Oklahoma, USA. Prevents and corrects the nutrient disorder, Rosette, in pecan trees. Pecan trees benefit from fertilizer twice a year. Pecan trees have monoecious flowers (i.e. Young pecan trees do need a ready source of nutrients to promote rapid growth. In the past you would have to resort to a standard fertilizer for everything. Apply a 10-10-10 fertilizer in April to the tree at a rate of 2 lbs. Take-All Root Rot on St. Augustinegrass . Feed the pecan tree a dose of ammonium nitrate in April and June each year. Established peaches should be fertilized twice a year. Scratch the fertilizer into the top 2 inches of soil and add 2 to 3 inches of water. Fertilize at the end of winter dormancy, in late February or early March. In early spring on a periodic basis start applying small amounts of nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Keep pecan trees healthy and productive. Choosing Your Tree. Pecan trees can be a bit of a chore, what with the initial pruning and the wait for maturity. For young trees, fertilize in March with 13-13-13, lime and zinc. Cast the fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the tree, beginning at least 2 feet from the trunk and extending at least 2 feet past the drip line of the canopy. Pecans have actually only been cultivated as grafted trees for about the last 150 years. “A soil test is cheap and easy to do. But if you have kids, you can just send them out to pick up the nuts and rake the leaves, so there’s that, at least. You should be fertilizing peach trees once in the early … If the lawn surrounding the pecan tree is being fertilized, this could add some nutrition to the tree; however, it may not be enough to satisfy the nutritional needs of the tree because most of the fertilizer will be used by the grass. A soil test is the best … “It costs a little more money, but a leaf analysis is a great way to know of any nutrient deficiencies in the tree,” he said. 1 Table based on Smith et al. Apply a complete and balanced fertilizer formula with a guaranteed analysis of 10-10-10 or 13-13-13 to your pecan tree each March. It’s time to fertilize pecan trees in north Georgia and Smith Farm Supply has fertilizer mixes to make sure your trees get the right nutrition for optimal production next season. A rule of thumb for fertilizing nonbearing trees is to apply 1 pound of 10-10-10 fertilizer (10 percent nitrogen, 10 percent phosphorus, and 10 percent potassium) per year of tree age, in late February or early March, not to exceed 25 pounds per tree. Cooperative Extension System operates as the primary outreach organization Chip East, an Alabama Extension horticulture regional agent, offers the following information about fertilizing pecan trees. Smith Farm Supply Pecan Fertilizer Mix. Nov 19, 2020. of zinc sulfate for every year of the trees' age up to 2 lbs. Fertilize the tree annually. Feed the pecan tree a dose of ammonium nitrate in April and June each year. You can pick up information on soil testing at your local Extension office.”. Young trees should get applications of zinc to all new growth, and very fast-growing trees might need zinc every two or three weeks as new growth develops. Broad­cast fertilizer on the surface in a circle twice the branch spread of the tree. Nov 03, 2020. “The process is similar to collecting soil samples, but we take certain leaflet samples from the compound leaf and send to the plant diagnostics lab at Auburn.”. Fertilizer applied too early can be washed away or leeched too deeply into the soil for your pecan trees roots to easily pick it … An additional application under the trees in March should supply the additional fertilizer needed. our editorial process. Apply a complete and balanced fertilizer formula with a guaranteed analysis of 10-10-10 or 13-13-13 to your pecan tree each March. This website would like to use cookies to collect information to improve your browsing experience. New, young trees in their first growing season should not be fertilized until their roots have a chance to establish themselves and “settle in”. Spread it under and around the tree in an area twice the branch spread of the tree. The dolomite lime is the cheapest, but pelletized lime is easier to spread. When To Fertilize Pecan Trees The best time to fertilize your pecan trees is just after your trees have come out of dormancy in the Spring. Zinc Sulfate is critical to growing pecans where low soil-levels of zinc stunt tree growth and cause malformed nuts. Again, cast the lime over the root mass of the tree extending beyond the drip line. of fertilizer per year. Copyright Leaf Group Ltd. // Leaf Group Lifestyle. Again, for young trees, the time to put out fertilizer is late March through early June. Alabama Extension regional agents teach pecan classes in different counties and cover topics such as cultivar selection, plant spacing, proper planting and grafting. Fertilizing requirements for fruit trees in the home garden or orchard change throughout the life of the tree. That 2% zinc is key to helping our customers achieve high-quality pecans on their trees. and economic well-being. Pecan trees flourish with annual pruning that should begin as soon as the tree is planted. Insufficient lime, nitrogen and zinc in the soil are common problems for pecan trees grown in Alabama. Pecan trees should be planted 40-50' apart if planting near to each other. pecan trees may supply much of the fertilization require-ments of both trees and lawn. Without doing an analysis on the soil or leaves, there are some general guidelines to follow for fertilizing pecan trees.