Pecans from Indian Springs Farm in Wayne County arrived in stores this week. Owner Tim Haithcock told us this year’s harvest is the best crop he’s seen in years.
Tim began planting his trees back in 1996. He and his wife, Karen, had bought a worn out commodity farm, which they revived with cover crops, returning nutrients to the soil. Then they began planting trees, which take many years before producing nuts. They’ve expanded each year and now have over 500 trees. They grow several types of pecan, to extend the harvest season and reduce disease, but most people cannot distinguish between the different types.
Nuts from Indian Springs come straight from the farm, and since each year’s crop sells out, you know that the nuts in our stores are fresh. Tim uses pesticides and fertilizers sparingly, instead maintaining the health of his orchard by spending time in it, focusing on soil health, proper pruning (to aid sunlight and air flow), adequate watering during dry times, mulching, and other practices.
Pecans are high in antioxidants, oleic acid, dietary fiber, protein, and over 19 vitamins and minerals, with few carbohydrates and no cholesterol. Store pecans in your fridge or freezer.