Pecan trees typically begin producing nuts between 6 to 10 years of age, depending on the variety, growing conditions, and whether the tree is grown from seed or grafted stock. Grafted pecan trees tend to produce earlier, around 4 to 8 years, while seedling trees may take 10 or more years to start bearing nuts
. The growth stages of a pecan tree include seedling (about 2 years), sapling (about 4 years), pole (about 6 years), and mature (around 20 years), with significant nut production usually starting when the tree reaches maturity at about 20 years
. However, some sources note that pecan trees can start producing smaller crops as early as 5 to 8 years, and once production begins, they can continue producing nuts for over 100 years, sometimes up to 150 or even 300 years with proper care
. Factors influencing the time to production include:
- Propagation method: seed-grown trees take longer than grafted ones
- Environmental conditions: soil quality, climate, and proper care such as watering, fertilizing, and pruning
- Tree training and management practices can encourage earlier nut production by promoting vigorous growth and a strong tree framework
In summary, expect pecan trees to start producing nuts within 6 to 10 years, with grafted trees on the earlier side, and full maturity and peak production occurring around 20 years of age
