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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Byron, Georgia » Fruit and Tree Nut Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #414348
Research Project: Healthy, Sustainable Pecan Nut Production

Location: Fruit and Tree Nut Research

Title: Agricultural Usage of Composted Pecan Shells in Greenhouse Production

Author
item THAPA MAGAR, SRIJANA - Kentucky State University
item Pisani, Cristina
item TERRILL, THOMAS - Fort Valley State University

Submitted to: Trade Journal Publication
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/5/2024
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) is an economically significant tree nut, native to North America. Pecan production, however, is an energy-intensive practice with a small portion of consumable nut in comparison to the massive pecan byproducts: pecan shells and husks. Husks account for 25 to 30% of the total fruit mass and nutshells for 49% of the nuts. Traditionally, these byproducts are often discarded or composted without much economic value. The ongoing research at the USDA facility in Byron is evaluating the feasibility and benefits of using composted pecan shells, collected from a local pecan grower in Georgia, as the primary soilless substrate/soil amendment in greenhouse pecan production. The utilization of composted pecan shells presents a sustainable solution to address challenges in pecan production while tapping into additional revenue streams. As research continues to unfold, it is evident that innovative approaches like these will play a crucial role in shaping the future of agriculture.