Horticulture Q & A

Q: I have been told that I should get a leaf sample to find out if I need to fertilize my pecan trees, is this correct?
A: Yes, a leaf sample taken in the month of July is by far the most accurate way to fertilize pecan, grapes and fruit trees. I normally recommend a leaf sample if you have a number trees as the test was $24 for the test last year. July is the month of the year where nutrients in the tree are in balance, not going up or down the trees vascular system. If you choose to perform a leaf sample, go pick 200 leaves from a number of trees so you get a good average. Select leaves that are mature, not on the very ends of the branch. Wash them and let them dry out until brittle. You can bring them to the Extension Office and we can send them to a lab. The fertilizer application will be made next spring. The main objective is to pull the leaves from the trees here in July.
Oklahoma State University, U. S. Department of Agriculture, state and Local Government’s cooperating. The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, or status as a veteran and is an equal opportunity employer.
For more information contact the OSU Extension Center, 14001 Acme Road, corner of MacArthur and Acme Road in Shawnee or 273-7683.