When it comes to crops associated with Native American tribes, most people think of the three sister crops – beans, corn, and squash. However, there is another crop that has an even longer history with indigenous people in the United States – pecans. Native pecans are found in various states, including Oklahoma, where they have been growing wild for centuries.
Native pecans thrive in riparian soils, particularly in deep and rich river bottoms. They are mainly found along creeks and tributaries in states such as Oklahoma, Texas, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas. These wild pecans are genetically different from one another, leading to variations in size, shape, and quality.
While many people believe that native pecans have hard shells and little meat, there are actually many varieties with thinner shells and higher oil content. Some pecans are even referred to as “paper shell” pecans due to the thinness of their shells. Native pecans have been a staple for generations of Native American tribes, and their unique flavors and nutritional benefits make them highly sought after.
One of the advantages of native pecans is their minimal management requirements. Native pecan growers need to focus on thinning the trees for sunlight penetration, fertilization using clovers or conventional fertilizers, and managing pests like pecan nut casebearer or pecan weevil. If a native pecan tree encounters issues like scab or other diseases, it may be removed during the thinning process instead of relying on consistent spraying.
In contrast, improved variety pecans like Pawnee or Choctaw require more intensive management, including irrigation for proper nut fill and more frequent fungicide applications. However, some growers incorporate improved varieties into native pecan groves to boost overall production and increase the kernel percentage (the ratio of kernel to shell).
Research is being conducted to compare the health benefits of native pecans to improved varieties, specifically focusing on the increased oil content and properties that contribute to improved health. The results of these studies will provide valuable insights into the positive effects of native pecans on human health.
Availability of water is a significant factor in pecan production. Varieties like Pawnee or Choctaw, which have larger nuts, require irrigation to ensure proper development. Growers with limited water resources may opt for smaller varieties like Kanza. Additionally, the thin shells of certain pecan varieties contribute to a higher percentage of kernel, resulting in a greater yield of nut meat.
If you are interested in trying native pecans, reach out to your local pecan grower or keep an eye out for pecans while walking in parks or near creek banks during the fall months. This is the ideal time to harvest pecans as they begin to drop from the trees.
Oklahoma is a haven for native pecans, and they offer a unique taste and texture compared to improved varieties. Exploring the world of native pecans will not only introduce you to the rich history and flavors of this nut, but it will also support local growers and encourage the preservation of these fantastic treasures.
In conclusion, native pecans have a long history in Oklahoma and other states as a wild and sustainable crop. They offer a diverse range of flavors, sizes, and shapes, and ongoing research suggests that they may have more health benefits compared to improved varieties. By choosing native pecans, you support local growers and contribute to the preservation of this traditional and cherished nut in American culture. So, give native pecans a try and savor their unique taste and nutritional advantages.
Note: This article has been written based on the transcript of a video by OklahomaGardening.
