Q: Which nuts can we grow in the low desert? And what are some guidelines for growing them?
Q: Which nuts can we grow in the low desert? And what are some guidelines for growing them?
A: Forget about walnuts, pistachios, filberts and others like them. I have seen some almond trees produce fairly well but the trees only produce for a few years and they die a young death because of the heat of the low desert.
Pecans actually produce quite well in the low desert and the trees can grow and produce for several decades. Mature pecan trees will measure about 50 feet tall and wide, so you better have some space to grow them.
A three-year 1997-1999 study was conducted with mature pecan trees planted during the mid-1970s at the pecan orchards at Picacho. Twelve varieties were evaluated. Long-standing recommended varieties Western Schley and Wichita produced the greatest yields. The varieties Cheyenne and Sioux also exhibited great promise.
Western Schley is easy to grow, has long tapered medium sized nut, thin-shelled, and good kernel quality. It is self-fruitful, bears early in four to five years. Western Schley is recommended for single tree planting in home gardens and is less affected by zinc deficiency than other cultivars.
In the fall, pecan trees growing near drive ways will drop a sugary residue on pavement and any vehicles parked near by. The invisible rain comes from an aphid sucking the sap from the pecan leaves. The residue will leave a rough finish on your vehicle but it washes off and it’s only for a few months . It doesn’t harm the pecan trees and treating a 50-by-50-foot tree isn’t practical anyway.
If you want a pecan tree and have the space for one, then plant it during January and February.
