The noble pecan (carya illinoinensis) is a fruit-bearing tree that thrives in zones 5 – 9. The seeds of which have become the stuff of baking legend.
Pecan trees can grow to 130ft tall, with a canopy 75ft wide. In orchards, they are pruned down for harvesting accessibility. In-home gardens can be kept even smaller, in pots or in the ground.
Infertile soil, using a fertilizer with a well-balanced NPK is usually enough. But, if your trees need a boost, the best fertilizer for pecan trees is just a paragraph away.
Best Pecan Tree Fertilizers
For effective ways to apply nutrients to your pecans, be sure to read all the way to the bottom of this article. But, if you’re simply looking for the best fertilizer for pecan trees, here below are my top three choices. Alternatively, skip to my picks for the 5 best performers that I tested for myself
Best Organic Fertilizer For Pecan Trees
Down to Earth Citrus Fertilizer Mix with Zinc 6-3-3
Perfect for nutrient deficient soil to increase nitrogen and ensure healthy foliage and ideal for adding that much-needed zinc that all Pecans need to thrive.
Best Fertilizer Spikes
Jobe’s Fruit & Citrus Fertilizer Spike 4-6-6
Great for mature trees that require just two applications of fertilizer for the year, especially when fertilizing immediately before bud set or in dry conditions.
Best Fertilizer For Small Pecan Trees
Miracle-Gro Performance Organics Edibles 7-6-9
An organic granular option that can be used every 4-6 weeks making it a good choice for potted or small Pecans that need feeding more often. Use to enhance nitrogen levels in soil and provide protection against underwatering.
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Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Pecan Trees
To encourage lush foliage and abundant fruit and nut clusters, the specific nutrient needs of pecan trees must be addressed. These are considered heavy feeders. But their fertilizing needs aren’t complicated. They simply need a lot of it, once or twice per growing season.
Out of roughly 500 varieties, only a few are grown in home gardens and all of them develop flowers. Which then transform into fruit and nuts that are dotted among lush, vibrant foliage from September to November.
In order for all this to happen in a healthy, unforced way, a low and slow approach to fertilizing will provide mature trees with an equally steady flow of nutrients.
This should start when they’re still saplings, using a slower release option throughout the growing season, as they become established.
A faster-acting liquid feed may be occasionally appropriate in less-than-fertile soil, and to support rapidly growing young trees.
Pecan Tree Fertilizer N-P-K Ratio
Pecan trees thrive and produce when they have open access to the right combination of nutrients. The best NPK will depend on the age of your tree, the variety, and where its planted.
Choosing the right NPK is easy when you understand what your pecans need. Which is equal access to basic macro and micronutrients.
Every fertilizer label includes a three-numbered N-P-K ratio. Indicating that product’s proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
For example, a 6-3-3 NPK has 6% nitrogen, 3% phosphorus and 3% potassium. Every plant requires these three elements for optimal health. Just in different proportions.
Applying Zinc
One micronutrient that pecan trees depend on for healthy growth and nut production is zinc. Commonly applied as a foliar spray, zinc ensures robust growth during the stage of spring bud break.
A deficiency in zinc will be evident in discolored foliage veins, warped leaves, bare branches, and hollow nutshells.
Soil applications of zinc are possible. But have shown to have slower absorption rates and only work well in soil pH below 6. Making them less effective within that critical window of growth.
Pecan Soil pH and Nutrient Uptake
Pecan trees can be tolerant of a broad range of pH levels. Yet, really thrive in a pH between 6.2 and 7.0. Despite this tolerance, the soil pH around your trees should be well-monitored if you want it to produce a lot of tasty nuts.
When the pH is too low, micronutrients actually become too accessible and are absorbed in excess of what the trees need. In pH that’s too low, the opposite happens. Nutrients become locked in the soil and unavailable to roots. This inevitably leads to deficiencies and growth problems within the trees.
Granular Vs Liquid Fertilizer
Slow-release, granular fertilizers are often preferred over those that tend to inundate plants all at once. Fast results may seem a more appealing idea. But large boosts can be harmful to your plants and accidental over-feeding, with liquid options, is common.
Yet, liquid fertilizers do have their benefits. When pecan trees are planted in poor soil, using a liquid feed means they immediately receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
It can also be used as a soil drench or foliar spray. Even if you regularly use slow-release fertilizers, a quick boost of liquid nutrients may benefit during growth spurts, as buds set, or in times of drought.
Organic vs Synthetic Fertilizers
Deciding between these is simply a matter of personal preference. However, an understanding of how each works and affects your environment can support an informed decision.
Organics are plant or animal-based and contain nutrient levels that mimic what trees have access to in the wild. They naturally increase soil fertility and nourish plants for longer, while encouraging proper aeration and drainage.
Synthetics are mass-produced using minerals and chemical compounds. They boost rapid growth by providing higher levels of nutrients. But, have little to no impact on healthy, microbial, soil activity, soil texture, or long-term fertility.
Best Pecan Tree Fertilizer Reviews
I have been lucky enough to have taken care of some pecan trees of late and so, I’ve had the opportunity to test several different fertilizer options. The following are my picks for the top 5 performers, based on NPK results, versatility-of-use, and product features that accommodate different nutrient needs.
Pros
- Excellent for citrus tree fertilization too
- Good value for money
- Great results with a mass of fruit
Cons
- Requires mixing with soil
Why waste time and money applying and buying two separate products when you can provide your Pecans with the zinc that they need and fertilize them at that same time with this organic, slow-release fertilizer from Down to Earth?
Despite the modest name and branding, this one certainly lives up to its reputation. The 6-3-3 NPK formula indicates its nutritious reach across the gamut of fruit and nut trees to support new foliage and root growth, as well as an abundant yield, come harvest time.
The feed has been a citrus tree fertilizer favorite of mine for some time now. Expertly combining fishbone and kelp meal, calcium, and zinc to its primary NPK formula, this organic mix is highly effective.
How to use: For established trees, use up to 4 times a year. For new trees, more applications are needed. The product must be mixed with soil as per the instructions.
Pros
- Improves soil condition while fertilizing nut trees
- Contains patented Biozome for safe, eco-friendly feeding
- Only 2 applications are required per year
Cons
- Needs to store in a cool, dry place
For dependable, consistent nutrients for your pecan trees, and especially where the soil is depleted, these simple-to-use spikes from Jobe’s Organics are next on my list.
They are made with Jobe’s patented Biozome formula, contain no chemicals at all, and have an 8-2-2 NPK that works to improve soil quality while boosting yield potential and foliage growth.
If that’s not enough, they come pre-measured so there is no worry of pre-mixing mess or any fear of harmful runoff. Win/win! My only slight criticism of this fertilizer is how much my dog loves their odor. To fix this and avoid dig holes, I bury them deep.
How To Use: Sink spikes 1-2 inches into the soil, evenly spaced, around the drip line. Once in spring, then repeat in autumn. The number of spikes to apply depends on trunk diameter.
PROS
- Versatile usage for many garden edibles
- Increased yield from a focused NPK
CONS
- Not recommended for use as a water-soluble
With an endorsement from the OMRI, Miracle-Gro’s organic formula offers a liquid feed that will enhance soil prone to nutrient deficiencies especially potted varieties of Pecans.
Other than an assurance of the peace of mind that comes from feeding plants that you’re going to eat with something natural, the extra potassium also means that you’ll be supporting your trees in periods of drought, especially if you forget to water them now and then.
How To Use: Apply evenly around plants per the recommended amount and water regularly. Then, repeat regularly for continuous feeding.
Pros
- Fast results due to reduced nitrogen
- Resealable bag for easy pouring and storage
- Suitable for use on a range of fruit and nut trees
Cons
- Over-feeding may result in more foliage and fewer blossoms and fruit
If slow-release granules are your preference, then this option from Jobe’s is what you need.
The 3-5-5 NPK ratio in this product is lower in nitrogen. Not only does that mean you should use this if late frost has thwarted bud set, it also provides an effective partnership with other proprietary microorganisms enabling them to break down organic materials quicker to get growth moving again.
How To Use: For new or potted plantings, work granules into the soil before planting. For established trees, work 1 1/2 cups into the soil around the tree base per foot of tree spread.
Pros
- Long-lasting consistent release feed
- Made with customer convenience in mind
Cons
- Large spikes mean they are not suitable for young trees
The benefits of Miracle-Gro Fruit & Nut Citrus Spikes aren’t limited to fruit and nut trees. Palms and evergreens will also show heightened nutrient absorption too.
With an N-P-K ratio of 15-5-10, these spikes offer a well-balanced feed and are recommended for use just twice per year – once in Spring and again, in Fall.
These spikes are best used for larger more mature Pecan trees, with each spike measuring 4 inches. They are supplied with a plastic protective cap, which allows for a cleaner strike when you hammer them into the ground.
How to Use: Apply these evenly around the root zone of pecans in spring and fall for vigorous new growth and increased tolerance to cold winters. Where soil is particularly dry, I recommend moistening it first to make driving the spike into the ground easier.
How to Fertilize Pecan Trees
Effective fertilization of your pecan trees is one of the hallmarks of productive success. Remember, these require relatively heavy fertilization, but only a couple of times per growing season.
As mentioned, a low and slow approach will provide mature trees with an equally steady flow of nutrients. If you have more than a few trees, applying granules with a spreader will make quick work of this, for both mature and newly planted trees. This method also puts the fertilizer exactly where it will benefit the tree, without inadvertently feeding the weeds and grass around them, too.
As a general rule, apply 3/4 – 1 pound of fertilizer for pecan trees per 1 foot of height, per season. Breaking the dosage into two applications, one in spring and another in fall. If it’s not already included in your fertilizer choice, a zinc sulfate supplement will also be needed.
Avoiding Pecan Tree Fertilizer Burn
Take care when applying zinc. Foliar sprays should be applied in the cooler hours of the day. This is because leaves tend to get scorched when the hot sun hits the zinc.
Leaf scorch may also indicate an issue with your tree’s root or vascular system. Which can be the result of over-fertilization. Pecans prefer an equal balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
If there is too much of one and not enough of another, burned foliage and tree dehydration can follow. Excessive nutrients can also cause limb breakage, soft, discolored fruits, and delayed ripening and bearing.
When to Fertilize Pecan Trees
Mid-March is the best time to fertilize your pecans. With the second application being applied early to mid-May, in warmer climates. This will ensure rapid nutrient uptake as your trees rouse from winter dormancy. And will see the tree all the way from flower to nut.
If your pecans happen to lose new flowers or fruit to an early spring frost, they will typically require less nitrogen for that year. As there will be less fruit to bear. Reduce nitrogen intake by ⅓ to ¾, while maintaining adequate amounts of phosphorus and potassium.
Fertilizing Pecan Trees Pre-Fruiting
Applying fertilizer in early spring, just prior to fruiting, will focus a proportional amount of your pecan tree’s energy on forming fruit and seeds (nuts) from spent flowers. The balance will go toward lush foliage.
Before fertilizing, it’s a good idea to test the soil to see what nutrients, if any, were depleted during the previous year’s growing season. The result will give you the opportunity to adjust the NPK you apply, to accommodate any revealed deficiencies. A zinc supplement can then follow in April.
How Often to Fertilize Pecan Trees
How often to fertilize will be dictated by the brand you choose, soil quality, and your tree’s age and size. Yet, because most fertilizers are made to accommodate several different plant types, make sure that the NPK will meet the specific nutrient needs of your pecans.
Mature trees will need more fertilizer, in spring, than young saplings. A slow-release fertilizer, like Jobe’s spikes or Miracle-Gro’s performance granules, should last well into the growing season.
Smaller trees in pots will need to be fed twice a year with a slow-release option like Jobe’s fertilizer spikes. This is due to the inevitable leaching of nutrients, soil, and moisture that occurs with more frequent watering.
Verdict: Best Fertilizers for Pecan Tree
The verdict is in! The most effective fertilizer will primarily depend on soil quality and tree age. Those in fertile soil will need a simple, well-balanced NPK like a 20-20-20 fertilizer for mature trees. Or a 10-10-10 fertilizer for smaller saplings.
But, unless you have really fertile soil, you’ll most likely need to supplement certain nutrient deficiencies. Working in a recommended amount of Down to Earth Citrus fertilizer mix will increase nitrogen availability to ensure healthy foliage with efficient photosynthesis properties.
If a bit more potassium is needed to boost nutrient and moisture circulation, then Jobe’s Fruit And Citrus spikes are just the tickets – especially for mature trees that need fertilizing less often.
For potted and smaller trees, I recommend you choose Miracle-Gro’s Performance Organics Edibles. It’s gentle enough to use every 4-6 weeks which makes perfect sense to compensate for leaching and loss of nutrients.
Lastly, zinc, zinc, zinc. Pecans won’t happen without it. Again, my recommendation here is to use Down to Earth Organic Citrus Fertilizer with added zinc sulfate.
Best Organic Fertilizer For Pecan Trees
Down to Earth Citrus Fertilizer Mix with Zinc 6-3-3
Perfect for nutrient deficient soil to increase nitrogen and ensure healthy foliage and ideal for adding that much-needed zinc that all Pecans need to thrive.
Best Fertilizer Spikes
Jobe’s Fruit & Citrus Fertilizer Spike 4-6-6
Great for mature trees that require just two applications of fertilizer for a year, especially when fertilizing immediately before bud set or in dry conditions.
Best Fertilizer For Small Pecan Trees
Miracle-Gro Performance Organics Edibles 7-6-9
An organic granular option that can be used every 4-6 weeks making it a good choice for potted or small Pecans that need feeding more often. Use to enhance nitrogen levels in soil and provide protection against underwatering.
