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Louisianians love pecans. And they also like to grow them. Pecan production contributes nearly $5 million to the Louisiana economy each year. Producers learn how to grow pecans and manage pecan orchards at the nation's No. 1 – and only – Pecan Research and Extension Station, which is located in Shreveport.
"Our Pecan Research and Extension Station serves the entire pecan-growing region of the southeastern United States," said David Boethel, LSU AgCenter vice chancellor for research. "The research and extension activities conducted at the station by the scientists have made significant contributions to maintaining the sustainability and profitability of a national industry that is worth $300 million annually."
The research program focuses on plant pathology, entomology and horticultural projects associated with commercial pecan production. The station includes three greenhouses of 4,050 square feet for pecan research and seven research orchard blocks. Total size of the station is 100 acres.
Pecans are grown in 39 Louisiana parishes and are commonly found in the homeowner landscape as well.
History
The pecan station was established in 1928 by an act of Congress and placed under the authority of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The planting of 17 varieties of trees was initiated in the fall of 1929. These trees were spaced on 50-foot by 50-foot centers, and data were taken beginning in 1935. Data has provided information on variety and rootstock selection, cultural practices, nutritional requirements, and insect and disease management. From 1943-1946, an additional 25 varieties were planted. Production records from these trees were begun in 1951. A few of these 25 were the same varieties planted in 1930 and were to be used as standard varieties for comparison.
Currently, 44 acres are in production (620 bearing trees), and an additional 30 acres (1,000 non-bearing trees) that have not yet reached production age.
In 1973, the USDA closed its operation at the station and interested growers and others working with congressional representatives were able to persuade all agencies involved to transfer the station to the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station.
Nutritious Delicacy
Pecans are nutritious, tasty treats that literally fall from trees. They must be handled properly to ensure quality.
Pecan trees are found in yards, pastures, fence rows and river bottoms in Louisiana. Harvest the nuts soon after they fall because “a lot of bad things can happen to them on the ground,” said Randy Sanderlin, coordinator of the Pecan Station.
Pecans often contain excessive moisture when they first fall. The nuts should be dried before they are put in storage. Drying can usually be accomplished by placing the pecans in a shallow layer in a warm, dry area for two weeks. Add fans and heat to speed drying.
Read more about the proper handling of pecans.
Pecans have traditionally been used in pies, cookies, candies and other desserts. They also can be used in more healthful ways such as sprinkling chopped pecans over morning cereal. Add them to salads, casseroles, pasta and other dishes.
Research has shown that pecans are antioxidant-rich, cholesterol-lowering and heart healthy.
Spinach-Strawberry-Pecan Salad
Here is a nutritious salad recipe from LSU AgCenter extension agent Katherine Pace.
1 cup chopped pecans
2 packages fresh spinach
3/4 cup sliced celery
1-1/2 cups sliced strawberries
Mix ingredients and toss with poppy seed dressing.
Poppy Seed Dressing:
2/3 cup white vinegar
1-1/2 cups sugar
1 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons dry mustard
2/3 cup olive oil
1 12-oz. can chicken broth
3 tablespoons poppy seeds
Mix vinegar, sugar, green onions, salt, dry mustard, olive oil and chicken broth in a blender. Pulse until well blended. Stir in poppy seeds. Mix pecans, spinach, celery and strawberries.
For a traditional pecan pie recipe, order a copy of the LSU AgCenter's "Serving Louisiana" cookbook.
The LSU AgCenter is one of 11 institutions of higher education in the Louisiana State University System. Headquartered in Baton Rouge, it provides educational services in every parish and conducts research that contributes to the economic development of the state. The LSU AgCenter does not grant degrees nor benefit from tuition increases. The LSU AgCenter plays an integral role in supporting agricultural industries, enhancing the environment, and improving the quality of life through its 4-H youth, family and community programs.