To propagate pecans, you can either grow them from seeds (seed propagation) or use grafting or budding (vegetative propagation) for faster results.
Seed Propagation:
- Collect Nuts: Gather well-filled nuts during harvest season.
- Prepare Nuts: Remove husks and dry nuts to about 5% moisture.
- Stratify: To break dormancy, stratify nuts between 36° and 41°F for 30 to 90 days, then acclimate to room temperature for at least a week before planting.
- Plant: Plant in late winter, before March 1st, 2 inches deep.
- Weed Control: Keep the area weed-free.
- Select Seedling: After two years, a seedling should be 4-5 feet tall and ready for grafting.