Orchard owners interested in pecan cultivation will have an opportunity to learn staring with the May 5 Arkansas Pecan Growers Association annual education meeting and farm tour being presented by the APGA and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S. pecan production grew 3 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, Extension horticulture - 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.

Related:2018 Louisiana pecan crop coming up short

The May 5 APGA meeting will be held at Grateful Acres Pecan Orchard, 2677 Bevis Road, in Lonoke, Ark.

If you have questions about the school email [email protected], [email protected], or call (501) 671-2243.

The fee to attend all pecan school sessions is $150, which includes membership in the Arkansas Pecan Growers Association and attendance at APGA annual meeting. The fee for current members is $75. Registration fee includes lunch and educational materials.

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