Pecan growers annual meeting and farm tour set for May 5 at Lonoke

The Arkansas Pecan Growers Association annual education meeting May 5 begins an opportunity to growers interested in adding pecans to their orchards.

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S. pecan production grew three percent to more than 277 million pounds last year. In terms of consumer preference, pecans ranked third behind almonds and walnuts, according to the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Pecans are an Arkansas staple, gaining popularity as a commercial crop,” said Jackie Lee, integrated pest management specialist for the Division of Agriculture. “Commercial production of this perennial crop requires specialized knowledge, skills and equipment. Pecan school will help beginning growers navigate orchard management.”

The May 5 meeting covers orchard establishment, pecan scab management and food safety regulations. It’s the first in the series of educational events for the Arkansas Pecan School, which will hold sessions during the growing season to address time-specific production practices. Other topics covered will included integrated pest management, fertility management, equipment needs and pecan varieties.

The May 5 APGA meeting will be held at Grateful Acres Pecan Orchard, 2677 Bevis Road, in Lonoke. If you have questions about the school, email [email protected], [email protected], or call 501-671-2243.

Fee to attend all pecan school sessions is $150, which includes membership in the Arkansas Pecan Growers Association and attendance at APGA annual meeting. Fee for current members is $75. Registration fee includes lunch and educational materials. Seating is limited and we ask that you please register before the event so we can get a lunch count.

The Pecan School will have three follow up sessions through the growing season, all held in Lonoke. They are as follows:

June 26—Early Season Pecan School 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Grateful Acres.

Aug. 7—Midseason Pecan School. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lonoke County Extension Office; 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Grateful Acres.

Oct. 4—Late-Season Pecan School. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lonoke County Extension Office; 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Grateful Acres.

To learn more about commercial horticulture, contact your county extension office or visit www.uaex.edu.