Pecan Scab: Why Homeowners Can't Easily Control It

Black, mildewed pecan hulls signal pecan scab, a fungal disease worsened by wet springs. Commercial growers use high-pressure sprayers and resistant varieties (‘Stuart’, ‘Elliott’, ‘Curtis’, ‘Gloria Grande’), but homeowners lack the equipment to reach mature tree canopies.

Best Home Practices

• Rake and destroy every fallen leaf, nut, and twig each autumn.
• Pray for a dry spring—scab spreads via rain splash.
• Consider planting resistant varieties if starting new trees.

Chemical control is impractical for large trees. Focus on sanitation and weather luck.