Going Green Report: Insects Good For Green Pecan Crops?
By: Kailey Franz
Updated: November 19, 2009
For years, pecans of all shapes and sizes have been displayed and judged in the Abilene Pecan Show, and this year Kailey Franz was their for the day of judging.
At the annual Abilene Pecan Show, growers put their best pecans on display. With more than 40 entries, judges had to examine extra closely to determine the best of the best.
"We actually judge by the percentage of kernel, size, weight and amount produced. There are actually numerous types of pecans grown in this area."
To produce the best product, and take home a prize, some pecan growers choose to go green, avoiding pesticides and relying on natural elements.
"If I'm going to have an exceptionally large crop, then I will not use pesticides."
Grower Joe Wilson says in good years, he can allow insects to thin out the crop, which he feels ultimately produces a better pecan.
Insects can be pests, but they can also be a key element in natural farming. Avoiding pesticides when growing pecans is just another way to go green in the Big Country.
The results of the pecan judging along with many of the pecans will be on display tomorrow at Frontier Texas.
At the annual Abilene Pecan Show, growers put their best pecans on display. With more than 40 entries, judges had to examine extra closely to determine the best of the best.
"We actually judge by the percentage of kernel, size, weight and amount produced. There are actually numerous types of pecans grown in this area."
To produce the best product, and take home a prize, some pecan growers choose to go green, avoiding pesticides and relying on natural elements.
"If I'm going to have an exceptionally large crop, then I will not use pesticides."
Grower Joe Wilson says in good years, he can allow insects to thin out the crop, which he feels ultimately produces a better pecan.
Insects can be pests, but they can also be a key element in natural farming. Avoiding pesticides when growing pecans is just another way to go green in the Big Country.
The results of the pecan judging along with many of the pecans will be on display tomorrow at Frontier Texas.
