Selective Limb Pruning of Large Pecan Trees Reduces Yield but Improves Nut Size and Tree Characteristics

Pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) C. Koch] tree height was gradually reduced by removing one to three limbs per year at a height <12 or <9 m or none. Pruning at either height reduced yield but increased tree vigor, terminal shoot growth, nut size, and percentage of standard grade kernels. Pruning reduced leaf Mg and percentage of fancy grade kernels.