Long-term dichogamy of 80 pecan cultivars

Abstract

Data are presented on dates of pollen shed and pistil receptivity for up to 16 years for 80 pecan ( Carya illinoensis (Wangenh.) C. Koch) cultivars and selections grown at Tifton, GA, USA. The data are useful for matching cultivars for optimum cross-pollination and minimum self-pollination. Pollination and pistil receptivity dates relative to the industry standard cultivar ‘Stuart’ are given so that the data should be useful at most geographical locations. Mean number of days of overlap of pistil receptivity and pollen shed ranged from 0 to 8 and varied greatly within a cultivar. Dates of pollen shed and pistil receptivity relative to ‘Stuart’ also varied greatly thus indicating that several pollinator cultivars are needed to ensure good cross-pollination every year. The data indicate that actual pollen release and pistil receptivity dates are more important in selecting pollinator cultivars than type of dichogamy.