Pecan Tree Black Nuts and Spider Webbing: Phytophthora Root Rot and Harmless Barklice

Black Pecans = Phytophthora Root Rot

Paper-shell pecans turning black and dropping by hundreds indicate Phytophthora cactorum—a root rot pathogen. Despite sandy soil and low rain, the tree may have poor internal drainage or a low spot.

Organic Management

• Atomic Grow soil drench + foliar spray to raise brix, suppress fungus.
• Key Plex foliar fertilizer for nutrient support.
• Reduce ground-applied chemical fertilizers—they can harm soil biology.

The "Spider Webs" Are Harmless

Silken webbing on trunk = psocids (barklice). They eat lichens, fungi, pollen—not the tree. No control needed. Webs disappear in winter.

Long-Term Outlook

Large, old pecans can persist for years with root rot if vigor is maintained. Monitor canopy density annually. Neighbor's healthy trees suggest site-specific issue.