In 1994, we started our pecan orchard by planting 200 saplings purchased from Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas. We planted the saplings in what used to be a cornfield along the banks of Jake Creek in Northeast Kansas and were excited about our new "hobby."

     Over the next 5 years, we increased our orchard by approximately 100 saplings per year. In 2001, we purchased some adjoining property and began growing our own saplings, a process involving stratifying the pecan nut. We now have 1,900 trees with approximately 1,000 of them currently bearing USDA improved variety pecans. Most of our orchard is planted in Pawnee and Kanza varieties, but we also have Goosepond, Peruque, and Gardner. Our hobby has become a full-time job.

     We spend our springs pruning and grafting, our summers watering and mowing, and our falls harvesting.