I often get questions about pecans, especially during the holidays with all the holiday baking. Many want to plant the trees as nursery and garden centers receive their annual shipment of bare-rooted trees in late winter or early spring. However, there are a few cultural requirements about pecans to consider before planting.

• Pecan trees require a considerable amount of space, at least 75 feet between trees. Small residential lots may not be able to accommodate this need. Over-crowding is often a problem with older pecan plantings. There are dwarf varieties of pecan trees, unfortunately, these cultivars have had limited success in the Piedmont.

• Pecan trees have no fall color. In fact, the leaves in the fall can be somewhat ugly. If fall color is requirement, do not plant a pecan tree.

• The limbs and twigs of pecan trees are brittle. Ice storms in the winter and stormy weather in the spring keep homeowners busy with broken limbs.

• It takes many years before pecan trees yield an appreciable crop. Most cultivars require eight to 12 years growth before producing a sizeable crop. Often, pecans are planted as sentimental gestures for young children and grandchildren to enjoy later in life. Pecans are very hardy trees; once established, this species is almost indestructible.

There are several varieties that do well in this area. Stuart, Cape Fear, Desirable and Stuart/Mahan are just a few offered by nurseries or garden shops in this area. Most trees are sold as two-year-old budded seedlings. Buy trees that are potted in tall slender nursery pots, avoiding balled trees wrapped in plastic. It’s a good idea to plant at least two varieties to ensure good pollination.

Admittedly, pecan trees have many flaws; however, they can be a valuable as an heirloom. Take time to consider your site and other cultural factors before proceeding with this endeavor.

Darrell Blackwelder is the retired horticulture agent and director with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. Contact him at deblackw@ncsu.edu.