75°F
weather icon Clear

Pecan trees’ shade is too water-costly

Question: I would like to plant a pecan tree in my backyard, but some friends told me they are so difficult to maintain. Plus, they need to be close to another one to be pollinated. If I can plant a pecan tree, which do you recommend to plant for some shade and nuts?

Pecan trees will do well in this climate, but I would not recommend them as a shade tree in the desert.

Pecan trees can be monsters in size and spread, and because of their size, they require large amounts of water as they mature. They are not well-suited to a desert climate where water is a premium.

For shade, all you need are trees in the 20- to 30-foot range in height and they will use considerably less water.

If you want a nut tree, then pick an almond or pistachio instead.

If you are concerned about shading a home for energy conservation, then select trees and shrubs that shade the south and west walls, not the roof. This is where you're going to get the most energy conservation.

Bob Morris is an associate professor with the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension. He can be reached at morrisr@unce.unr.edu or 257-5555.

THE LATEST
Watch out for hornworms lurking in your garden

Anyone who has been gardening for a while has a horror story or two about hornworms, which infest many vegetables in the tomato family.

What can be done about high boron levels in soil?

Boron is one of the salts commonly found in desert soils. It can be present naturally or it can accumulate over the years in such places as horse corrals.

Do honeybees prefer pink flowers over white ones?

All of the so-called temperate fruit trees flower in the spring. The white-flowered types such as almonds, plums and pluots, apples and pears usually flower a bit later.

Is redbud tree a good choice for pool area?

My landscaper is recommending a redbud tree in the planter attached to my pool. I asked him if that’s a good tree to plant so close to the pool.

Can scent tell me what kind of plant this is?

You should smell a big difference between bay laurel and cherry laurel, which come from different plant families despite their similar names.