This article was written by Casey Willis, Facilitator for the AL Healthy Kids, Healthy Future program, a partner of the Alabama Farm to ECE Coalition.
Pecans are found all over the state of Alabama, and can be a great food to focus on in a Farm to ECE lesson! In this article, we are sharing everything we have learned about pecans.
What is a Pecan?
A pecan is a type of nut that grows on trees in husks. When the husks open, the nuts fall to the ground and can be picked. The nut is brown and has a soft, sweet taste. Inside the nut’s shell is a delicious treat we love to eat! Pecans are special because they grow in Alabama and are an important part of the state’s natural resources.
Where Do Pecans Grow?
In Alabama, pecans grow on tall trees called pecan trees. These trees can grow very big and have long, green leaves. You can find them in many parts of the state, especially in places with warm weather. Pecans grow best when the tree has plenty of sunshine and a little bit of rain.
Fun Facts About Pecans:
Alabama’s Favorite Nut: Alabama is one of the biggest producers of pecans in the United States! The state has lots of pecan trees, and they help make Alabama famous for its tasty nuts.
Harvest Time: Pecans are harvested in the fall when the nuts fall from the trees. After the nuts are picked up, they are cleaned and sometimes cracked open to get the yummy nut inside.
Tasty Treats: Pecans are used in many delicious foods! You can even eat them as a snack!
How Pecans Help Us:
Pecan trees are not just about the nuts. The trees also give us shade and help the environment by cleaning the air. They provide homes for animals, too!
Let’s Explore!
- Coloring Time: Draw a picture of a pecan tree with its big, green leaves and its brown, bumpy nuts.
- Tasting Time: If possible, try some pecans in your snack! They’re crunchy and sweet.
Now you know why pecans are so special in Alabama! They grow in the fall, taste yummy, and help our environment.
Try some pecans as an extra special snack and make Candied Pecans with a Kick, a recipe found on Sweet Grown Alabama’s website. This recipe comes from Priester’s Pecans in Fort Deposit, Alabama by Grace Ellis.
