Growth and Seed Production

• The pecan tree grows approximately 35 inches per year on sandy loam soil. The tree begins to produce viable seeds when it reaches 20 years of age. Maximum seed production begins at 75 to 225 years of age. A mature tree will produce and average of 100 lbs. of seeds per year.
  
  

Seedling Growth Time Frame

• The pecan tree drops its seeds in the fall but they require a period of cold stratification before germination can occur. The seeds begin to germinate and seedlings grow in April. Seedlings average a growth rate of 3 feet per year.
  
  

Warning

• Seedlings die quickly if they do not receive ample sunlight. The pecan tree is shade intolerant. The seedlings also require a well-draining location to grow and will often die in heavy clay soils. The tree does have the ability to regenerate and produce sprouts from its trunk if it is burned in a fire. Fires will kill seedlings quickly.