Tuesday Oct. 11
1:30 PM
When the 2011 growing
season began we originally had planned of holding a full day pecan field day at
the Pecan Experiment Field. And then the hot, dry summer hit. At several times
during the growing season, I was afraid that this year’s pecan crop would be a
total failure. No rain, 100 degree temperatures, and gaping cracks in the soil
all combined to make our trees look terrible. By the end of August I decided
that 2011 was not a good year to promote pecan culture. Area farmers were
disheartened by a dismal corn crop, poor stands of soybeans and a total lack of
forage for cattle. Everyone was worn out by the oppressive heat. So I cancelled
our field day plans.
Fortunately, in
mid-September we had some much needed rain. That one rain event turned a poor
quality pecan crop into a good quality crop. However, by the time things turned
around it was too late to get a full field day put together.
Since we haven’t had this
kind of drought since 1980, I think we have a great opportunity to see how the
numerous cultivars we have under test have fared under drought stress. This year is a good time for a Harvest Walk.
The Harvest Walk will be held at the Pecan Experiment Field, located 2 miles East of Chetopa, KS on US HWY 166 and 3/4 mile south 120th Street. We will be holding this
meeting rain or shine so come prepared for the weather. All are welcomed to attend.