Carya illinoinensis
A fantastic addition to any USDA Zone 6-9 yard. These will produce a ton of delicious nuts for the rest of your life (and your kids, and maybe your grandkids).Â
I grow seedlings collected from select-variety seeds, meaning that they should produce more and larger nuts than wild pecan trees. I also grow seedlings from local trees growing in parks here in Lancaster County.
Bare-Root Planting:
When you receive your tree, it will be bare root (no soil around the roots). The tree will be dormant for winter shipping, which allows it to be dug and transplanted with very little stress. The most important thing is keeping the roots moist. Your tree will arrive in a pot with moist woodchips or wrapped in moist paper towels inside a bag. It can remain this way for a short period if needed, but I strongly recommend planting it in the ground as soon as possible after purchase.
Note: You will need two trees planted near(ish) one another to ensure pollination. If you don't have room for a 2nd tree, ask a neighbor!
Size/Spacing:
The trees will grow to about 70-150 feet in height. They will have a 40-80 ft spread when they are full grown.
Site Preference:
You'll want to plant these trees in full sun with rich well-draining soil. I always suggest mulching well to cut down on weed pressure and reduce the need for watering. Keep them well watered their first year until they are established. Then they should survive on their own, but you may need to water during production years to increase harvest depending on rainfall.
Hardiness:
USDA Hardiness Zones 6-9