Pecan Yield, Quality, Nutlet Set, and Spring Growth as a Response to Time of Fall Defoliation 1

Abstract

Abstract Defoliation of pecan trees [ Carya illinoensis (Wang) K. Koch] prior to October 1 prevented nutlet formation the next year in 2 out of 3 years. September defoliation was most damaging to yield, October defoliation was less damaging, and defoliation on November 1 did not reduce yield. Early defoliation delayed bud break the next year and August defoliation reduced nut size. Percentage kernel was reduced when defoliation date moved from August 1 to September 15.