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Fertilizing Pecan Trees: Zinc, Soil Testing, and More

Nutrient Management for Young Pecan Orchards

A Missouri grower with 300 native pecan seedlings on sandy clay loam (pH 6.3) asks about zinc sulfate and general fertility.

Critical First Step: Soil Test

Before applying any fertilizer, submit a soil sample to the University of Missouri Extension. Proper pH (6.0–6.5) is essential for nutrient uptake; if lime is needed, fertilizer will be wasted without it.

Zinc Considerations

Pecans have high zinc requirements. If the soil test shows deficiency, zinc sulfate (soil or foliar) is appropriate. Follow lab recommendations precisely.

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