Pecan trees are a long-term investment, so growers cannot afford to locate a pecan orchard improperly. One of the most important factors for a successful commercial operation is selection of soil acceptable for optimum tree growth and nut production. It is difficult to describe an ideal soil for pecans, considering the wide variation of soil types in New Mexico. However, we can define several characteristics needed in a soil to ensure good tree development. Soils should be well drained to allow rapid flow of water into the soil and throughout the root zone.
Heavy soils tend to become water-logged.
Soil compaction by machinery and equipment also tends to be worse in heavy soils, and can reduce water infiltration. Caliche layers also prevent water penetration in the soil. Soils should have good aeration to allow roots to breathe and conduct physiological processes, primarily water and nutrient uptake. Sandy soils, however, can have excessive drainage which can cause water stress in the orchard. If the hole is empty in 48 hours, the soil has adequate internal drainage.