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The Daily Insight

Can you transplant pecan trees?

Author

Matthew Barrera

Published May 25, 2026

Can you transplant pecan trees?

Bare-root pecan trees should be transplanted during the dormant season; mid December through early spring are preferred. Container-grown trees are less likely to receive transplant shock if planted while dormant, but with adequate attention and irrigation, they can be planted October through June.

How many years does it take for a pecan tree to produce a significant amount of pecans?

Significant production can be achieved in six to eight years. Good production will begin the ninth or tenth year. Trees can be productive for a 100 years or longer. Pecans, like other fruit and nut trees, exhibit a characteristic called alternate bearing.

How do you transplant a mature pecan tree?

Dig a hole just wide enough and deep enough for the root system of the tree without bending any of the roots. A power-driven auger, 12–18 inches in diameter, is a good implement for digging tree-planting holes, especially when a large orchard is planned (Figure 4). Set the tree at the same depth it grew in the nursery.

How deep are pecan tree roots?

Root Features Feeder roots can extend to a distance two to three times the diameter of the tree’s leafy crown. The taproot of a mature pecan tree grows to a depth of more than 10 feet, according to the University of Florida Extension Service.

How much does a pecan tree cost?

Seedling trees can be purchased for as little as $8-$10, depending on size and quantity. Improved varieties (budded trees) range in price from $10-$25, depending on size and quantity.

When is the best time to transplant a pecan tree?

Bare-root trees should be transplanted while dormant, between December and March — the earlier the better — to get good root establishment by spring. Container-grown trees normally suffer less transplant shock, and can be transplanted from October to May.

How tall and wide does a pecan tree grow?

Pecan trees can grow to be 100 feet tall, so if you are planting more than one to ensure pollination, space your trees at least 75 feet apart. If your sapling has a long tap root, it’s okay to trim it back by a half to a third of its length before planting. Dig a hole that will accommodate the tap root and is twice as wide as the root ball.

How big of a hole do you need for a pecan tree?

Bare-Root Trees — Bare-root pecan trees have long taproots and require a deep planting hole. In most situations, the hole should be at least three feet deep and 12 to 24 inches wide so that all side roots can be properly positioned as the hole is refilled.

Where to plant a pecan tree in Texas?

Pecan trees should be planted a minimum of 30 feet away from nearby trees or buildings, so it’s unlikely they’ll fall into the shade. The pecan tree is native to central and southern states in the US, including Texas, where it is the state tree.

How long do pecan trees last after transplant?

Pecan trees live for more than 300 years and begin producing nuts within 6 to 10 years after transplanting. Plant at least two different varieties of trees at a time to ensure pollination. Select one from Type I and the other from Type II. Choose pecan trees best adapted to your specific area for transplanting.

Pecan trees should be planted a minimum of 30 feet away from nearby trees or buildings, so it’s unlikely they’ll fall into the shade. The pecan tree is native to central and southern states in the US, including Texas, where it is the state tree.

Pecan trees can grow to be 100 feet tall, so if you are planting more than one to ensure pollination, space your trees at least 75 feet apart. If your sapling has a long tap root, it’s okay to trim it back by a half to a third of its length before planting. Dig a hole that will accommodate the tap root and is twice as wide as the root ball.

What should I do if my pecan tree is too tall?

Add more soil to the bottom of the hole if it is too deep for the pecan tree. Plant the pecan tree a few inches deeper to allow room for the soil to settle in place around it. This ensures the proper height of the tree in the ground a few days after planting it.