Northern Pecan Seedlings (Carya illinoinensis)

Pecans are well known and loved by many and they are not just a tree for the south! Northern pecans are the same native species as the southern pecans, but have proven able to grow in northern climates. Pecans are part of the hickory genus and are the only hickory to have become commercially viable due to the large nut size and thin shell. The edible nuts are the obvious reason to grow northern pecans. They crack out easily and have a sweet, rich taste. Besides snacking and baking the nuts can be pressed for oil or used to make a fine nut milk. Pecan wood is strong and durable and is useful for flooring, and fine woodworking. Pecans offer a wonderful tree crop and would make a great overstory tree in a food forest.

Northern pecans are large trees that can reach heights well over 100’ tall. They are the fastest growing of the hickories, but are slow to get going. Once established they have a moderate growth rate. These trees prefer deep, moist, but well drained soil and are naturally found in bottomlands near streams and creeks. They can adapt to other sites and will tolerate heavy soil, so long as the site is adequately drained. The nuts take a long time to mature, which is the biggest challenge for northern growers. These trees should be planted in warm microclimates to aid in nut ripening. Plant two or more seedlings for best pollination. Our nursery offers bare root seedlings that are 8-10” tall. Hardy to zone 5.

Pecans cannot be shipped to the following states: AZ, CA, NM, TX