Severe tree losses followed the November 1976 freeze, which occurred before trees had properly hardened off during that fall period. Wichita' appears to be one of the most susceptible to freeze injury as an older tree. Injury such as this is often not apparent until the second or third year after a freeze. This type of injury is referred to as subtle injury. Limbs affected by freeze injury produce small nuts that often result in sticktights.
Young trees are especially susceptible to freeze injury.
Note the suckers produced below the graft union. The bark tissue is dead and restricts the flow of sugars to the roots. Symptoms such as this are commonly seen on the south side of trees. Apply all nitrogen fertilizers before July 1. It is best to encourage early dormancy of pecan trees, especially in young orchards planted with 'Wichita' trees.