If water is allowed to stand in the field, it will cause waterlogging, hence blocking off oxygen that pecan roots require in order to be productive. Eventually, such trees will decline in productivity and die. An area prone to frequent and long-term flooding should not be considered. Fall flooding can wash pecan crops down stream or make the orchard inaccessible for harvest. Flooding during April-June reduces the orchard s production potential.
Flooding also decreases fertilizer efficiency, and interferes with pest and disease control.
Gentle slopes help in air drainage. Disease problems are more problematic when windbreaks or low-lying land restricts air flow. Cold air settles in protected or low areas, making the site more prone to freeze problems in both the late fall and early spring. An area with steep slopes may cause erosion problems and increase hazards associated with mechanical operations. The first step is to take a soil sample for nutrient-supplying ability.