Pecans, a tree nut native to North America, have gained considerable popularity across the globe for their rich flavor and nutritional value. Historically rooted in the landscapes of the American South, pecan trees are now cultivated in numerous regions beyond their native range to meet increasing demand.
Global Pecan Production Hubs
The global pecan market is largely dominated by two countries: the United States and Mexico. These nations collectively account for the majority of the world’s supply. While the United States has historically held the top position, Mexico has significantly expanded its pecan industry in recent decades, becoming the second-largest producer. Beyond North America, other countries are progressively increasing their pecan output. South Africa has emerged as a significant producer, rapidly approaching the 100 million pound mark in recent years. Other nations such as Australia, China, and several South American countries including Argentina and Brazil also contribute to the global pecan supply, though on a smaller scale compared to the leading producers.
The Pecan Belt in the United States
Within the United States, pecan production is concentrated in a region often referred to as the “Pecan Belt.” This area spans across several southern and southwestern states that provide favorable growing conditions for the trees. Historically, Georgia has been the leading pecan-producing state, accounting for a substantial portion of U.S. production. Other major contributors include New Mexico and Texas, which consistently rank among the top producers. New Mexico typically holds the second-highest production, while Texas, with its extensive acreage, rounds out the top three. Additional states with commercial pecan production include Arizona, Oklahoma, Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Ideal Conditions for Pecan Orchards
Pecan trees thrive under specific environmental conditions. They require a long, hot, humid growing season with a frost-free period of at least 200 days. Temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit are not ideal. Pecans also require a certain number of “chill hours” during winter, typically between 300 to 800 hours where temperatures are between 32°F and 45°F, to break dormancy and ensure proper bud development.
Regarding soil, pecan trees perform best in deep, well-drained soils, such as sandy loams or silt loams. The soil should allow for proper root penetration, ideally to a depth of several feet, and possess good water-holding capacity while preventing waterlogging. Consistent water availability is important, particularly during the growing season and the nut-filling stage, which occurs from late summer to early fall. Mature pecan trees can require significant amounts of water, potentially needing up to 150-250 gallons per day during peak usage.