SOIL TEST INFORMATION SHEET NO. F-580

Prepared by Extension Horticulturist John Pyzner

Pecans

1.	For commercial groves, adjust the nitrogen (N) rate so that annual shoot growth is between 8-12 inches on at leas 50% of the trees.  This can normally be attained by applying 100 to 200 pounds nitrogen per acre.

2.	Apply P2O5 and K2O as recommended.  The P2O5 and K2O should be applied in January or February in south Louisiana and in February or March in north Louisiana.

3.	On upland soils when the trees show rosette symptoms, apply 10-15 pounds zinc sulfate per tree initially and repeat with 3 to 5 pounds zinc sulfate per tree the following year or until the symptoms are corrected.  For non-bearing trees, apply 1\2 pound zinc sulfate per tree per inch in trunk diameter.  Early foliar sprays of zinc sulfate can be applied at a rate of 2 to 3 pounds per 100 gallons of water.

4.	Trees should be monitored by leaf analysis, taken from July 7 to August 7.  Mailing kits and sampling instructions are available at your county agent’s office.

5.	When collecting soil samples, sample to a depth of 8 inches.  Research indicated that much of the root absorption of plant nutrients occurs in the 6 to 8 inch depth.

6.	Full benefit from fertilization will not be obtained unless a good spray program for disease and insect control is followed.

7.	Contact your county agent for additional information and help in your fertilization program.  The agent also receives a copy of this report for the parish office files.