ripe pecans nut on the tree

How to Harvest Pecans?

Have you ever stood beneath the shade of a pecan tree, gazing up at the plentiful nuts and wondered how to harvest them? Or maybe you’re thinking about planting a pecan tree in your yard, but you’re not sure how to care for it or when to harvest the nuts. Whether you’re a pecan pie enthusiast, a gardener, or just a curious reader, this article will walk you through the process of harvesting pecans. From knowing when they’re ready to pick, to storing them correctly, we’ve got you covered.

Zozen Nut Gatherer, Walnut Picker Upper Roller, Pecan Picker Upper – Side Opening Dump | Apply to Walnut, Pecan, Hickory, Chestnuts, Buckeyes, Nerf Balls, Golf, Objects Size 3/4” to 1.5”; 1 Gallon
  • 🏆【US Patented Design】Patent No. D982108, D1017351, 10789234
  • 🏆【Research Intent】Say Goodbye to Sore Back. Scroll back and forth across any surfaces to collect various nuts, Just collective dumped directly after filling up. You can keep standing instead of kneeling and bending during the whole process. Use nut harvester. Quick collect& Easy to Operate Save Your Time & Strength. A quick roll of the nut gatherer lets a laborsome chore becomes a fun task!
  • 🏆【Unique Patent Design】All Nuts collectors on the market require need to pull the wires apart manually and shake to dump out the objects, sometimes even clamp hands. Zozen DUMP WAY DESIGN – when removing contents from the basket, no need to separate the wire manually and no need to shake, Rotate to open one side to dump directly. this way is easier to empty, and won’t clamp your hands.
  • 🏆【Which Features are better Others】①Telescopic rod with 3pc fixed button to fix height will be tighter, adjust high which perfectly matches people with different heights. ②Spherical basket connecting shaft widened – better scroll. ③Dump Outlet medial is designed slope – better Dump. ④Comfortable soft handle cover. ⑤A storage bag, you can use to store the collected nuts. ⑥Exquisite Gift box packaging can be given as a gift
  • 🏆【Material Introduction】The ROD of the nut collector is made of high-strength aluminum alloy, durable and rust-resistant, not easy to deform and bend. The SPHERICAL BASKET is made of 304stainless steel wire, which has good elasticity and does not damage the nuts or fruit, evenly-spaced, heat-tempered wire cage that maintains shape during use.

Pecan Trees and Their Nuts

Before we dive into the specifics of harvesting, it’s important to understand pecan trees and their delightful nuts. Pecan trees are native to the southern United States and Mexico, and they’re loved not only for their nuts but also for their large, shady canopies.

See also  What Does Broccoli Plants Look Like?

Pecans themselves are a type of nut, but they’re technically a fruit called a “drupe,” where a hard shell encases a seed – that’s the pecan nut we eat. They’re rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Pecan trees usually start producing nuts when they’re around six to ten years old, and with the right care, they can produce for decades!

Fisher Snack Glazed Pecans, 24 Ounces, Made with Whole Mammoth Pecans, 100% Recyclable
  • Contains 1- 24 Ounce reusable canister of Fisher Snack Glazed Pecans
  • Junior mammoth pecans sweetened to perfection with 2 grams of protein per serving
  • Our snack pecans are made with the highest quality pecans sourced directly from farmers which we have partnered with for generations. You’ll taste the difference in every bite
  • Fisher Snack Nuts are packed with wholesome goodness, rich flavor, and that signature crunch you crave. Our family size jars are a must have for your pantry, dorm room, or work station
  • For 100 years, Fisher Nuts has been committed to bringing their customers the highest quality nuts. We oversee the whole journey of our products, from orchard to our classic, clear canisters and pouches, to your kitchen

Recognizing When Pecans Are Ready to Harvest

Unlike some fruits and nuts, pecans don’t ripen all at once. They mature at different times throughout the harvest season, which usually falls in the autumn months. So how do you know when it’s time to pick them? Look for these signs:

  1. The Husks are Splitting: When pecans are ready to be picked, the green husk surrounding the shell will start to crack open. Inside, you’ll see the brown shell of the pecan. This is the clearest sign that your pecans are ripe and ready for harvesting.
  2. Pecans on the Ground: Pecan trees have a natural way of telling you when it’s harvest time – the nuts start falling to the ground! If you see pecans on the ground with the husks split open, it’s definitely time to start picking.
See also  Can Turtles Eat Broccoli?

Tools Needed for Harvesting Pecans

One of the joys of harvesting pecans is that it doesn’t require a lot of fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. A Gathering Basket or Bucket: You’ll need something to put your harvested pecans in. Any large basket or bucket will do.
  2. Gloves: Pecan husks can be a bit rough, so it’s a good idea to wear gardening gloves to protect your hands.
  3. Optional – A Pecan Picker: This is a long pole with a wire basket at the end that makes it easier to pick up pecans from the ground without bending over. It’s not necessary, but it can make the process quicker and easier, especially if you have a lot of trees to harvest from.

Now that you know when to harvest and what tools you’ll need, let’s move on to the actual process of harvesting pecans!

How to Harvest Pecans: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Wait for the Right Time: Make sure the pecans are ready to harvest. The husks should be split open, revealing the shell of the pecan, and some may have already fallen to the ground.
  2. Collect the Fallen Pecans: Start by picking up the pecans that have already fallen to the ground. Use your hands or a pecan picker to gather them.
  3. Shake the Tree: If there are still pecans in the tree, you can give the branches a gentle shake to dislodge them. Be careful not to shake too hard or you could damage the tree.
  4. Pick up the Pecans: Gather the fallen pecans quickly to prevent them from becoming a feast for squirrels and other wildlife.
  5. Inspect the Pecans: Not all pecans are created equal. Some might be rotten or infested with insects. Look over your harvest and discard any pecans that don’t look healthy.
See also  How Many Cucumber Plants per 5 Gallon Bucket?

Post-Harvesting: Cleaning and Storing Your Pecans

After you’ve gathered your pecans, it’s important to clean and store them properly to maintain their quality and taste.

  1. Clean the Pecans: Rinse the pecans under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a towel.
  2. Cure the Pecans: Lay the pecans out in a single layer in a cool, dry place. Let them cure for 2-4 weeks. This allows the nuts to dry out and improves their flavor.
  3. Store the Pecans: After curing, store the pecans in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a year, or in the freezer for 2 years.

Congratulations, you’ve now harvested, cleaned, and stored your pecans. You’re ready to enjoy them in your favorite recipes, or just snack on them straight from the shell!

Common Problems and Solutions When Harvesting Pecans

Sometimes, harvesting pecans doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are a few common issues you might face and some tips on how to solve them:

  1. Unripe Pecans: If you’ve harvested your pecans and they’re not ripe, it means you’ve picked them too early. It’s best to wait until the husks have split open before harvesting.
  2. Wildlife Eating Pecans: Squirrels and other animals love pecans as much as we do. To prevent them from eating your harvest, gather the nuts as soon as they fall and consider using tree guards or netting.
  3. Pecan Weevils: These pests burrow into the nuts and lay eggs. If you notice tiny holes in your pecans, it’s likely the work of weevils. Use insecticides to control the pests and discard any affected nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Harvesting Pecans

  1. What’s the best way to crack pecans? You can use a specialized pecan cracker, or a simple nutcracker will also do the job.
  2. What time of year do you harvest pecans? Pecans are usually harvested in the fall, from late September to November, depending on the climate and variety.
  3. How can I tell if a pecan is bad? A bad pecan will have a sour or bitter taste. Also, look for any signs of mold or pests.

Conclusion

Harvesting pecans might require a bit of patience and work, but the reward is worth it. Fresh, home-harvested pecans are a delicious treat that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet pies to savory roasts. Remember, it’s all about timing when it comes to harvesting pecans. So, wait for the right moment, gather your tools, and get ready for a bountiful pecan harvest!

How to Harvest Pecans?

About the author

Victoria Nelson

Victoria Nelson is a passionate gardener with over a decade of experience in horticulture and sustainable gardening practices. With a degree in Horticulture, she has a deep understanding of plants, garden design, and eco-friendly gardening techniques. Victoria aims to inspire and educate gardeners of all skill levels through her engaging articles, offering practical advice drawn from her own experiences. She believes in creating beautiful, biodiverse gardens that support local wildlife. When not writing or gardening, Victoria enjoys exploring new gardens and connecting with the gardening community. Her enthusiasm for gardening is infectious, making her a cherished source of knowledge and inspiration.

View all posts