Effect of Vigorous Shoot-Tip-Removal on Increased Fruiting of Young ‘Western’ Pecan Trees

Tip removal pruning of long vigorous shoots of young ‘Western’ pecans, Carya illinoensis, (Wang) K. Koch, growing in the Rio Grande Valley in El Paso County, Texas, increased lateral buds persisting and growing through the season, decreased growth per lateral bud forced, and increased fruiting of shoots from buds forced from pruned shoots during both years. Total yield per tree was increased the second year. A useful role for tip-pruning in controlling vigor and converting vigorous shoot growth to fruiting shoots is indicated.