Charles Rohla, Ph.D.

Moveable hoop houses provide flexibility, versatility

Hoop houses (high tunnels) have long been used by agricultural producers to extend the growing season and to establish crops earlier as compared to crops grown in the field.

Growth Potential

More and more, farmers and ranchers are planting pecan orchards, hoping to grow a brighter financial future. In support of the pecan growers, Charles Rohla, Ph.D., builds on more than 30 years of pecan research tradition at the Noble Research Institute, studying ways to maximize the wonder nut's production and developing more effective management strategies.

A Center for All

The new Center for Pecan and Specialty Agriculture adds opportunities for ag education and collaboration

A Shared Cause

Oklahoma State University and the Noble Research Institute build on a 70-year legacy of collaboration as they serve their home state and beyond.

National research project receives historic funding, set to advance DNA fingerprint system in pecans

Six national institutions have become the first multistate and multidisciplinary study to receive funding specifically to work on pecans.

Welcome to the Backyard

The Noble Research Institute is building a backyard. Four, actually. Cars zip by the agricultural research institution's campus on Highway 199 east of Ardmore, Oklahoma, every day. Now, just before...

Cracking Pecan's Problems

One of the first Americans to appreciate the flavor of pecans was George Washington, who planted the stately trees on the lawns of Mount Vernon in 1775. Yet true cultivation of the nuts wouldn't...

Research Shows Promise to Help Growers Better Control Pecan Scab

Noble Research Institute researchers are studying ways to combat the pecan scab disease that decimates pecan orchards every year.

Getting Back To Cattle

Joe and Jeannie Dobson return to their roots to enjoy the family land after years of city life.

Fungicide and host resistance help control pecan scab

One of the most damaging diseases in pecans is pecan scab, caused by the fungus Fusicladium effusum. It infects actively growing tissue, such as stems, leaves and nut shucks, when temperatures are above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity is above 90 percent.

Pecan alternate bearing challenges production

Pecan trees exhibit a strong tendency to produce a heavy crop one year, followed by one or more years of little to no production. This may best be characterized as alternate bearing with irregular symmetry.

Drought Stress on Pecan Trees

Drought conditions cause extreme stress on pecan trees. It is important for producers to understand the effects of drought and how pecan trees cope with the stress it brings.

Consider Pecan Management Decisions Over Coming Months

It is hard to believe that summer is almost upon us. This has the potential to be a heavy pecan crop year, if the drought has not hurt things too badly. To ensure a good crop, many management decisions need to be considered over the next few months, including proper fertilization and insect and disease control.

Pecan research moves into the 21st century

For decades, scientists have used molecular markers for research and breeding purposes to increase yields and water and nutrient efficiencies as well as disease and insect resistance in agricultural crops. Recently, pecan scientists have looked at the development of new technologies used in this research and considered its use in pecan breeding and research.

American Pecan Board establishes marketing order

The Federal Marketing Order was created to benefit the domestic and global pecan market.

A Helping Hand for Agricultural Producers

To help people stay engaged in agriculture, the AgrAbility Project was created in 1991 as part of the 1990 Farm Bill. Currently, 24 states have AgrAbility Projects to assist agricultural producers with disabilities.

Balanced fertilization program supports pecan growth

Fertilization is just one pecan management practice that helps maximize crop production and provides optimal tree maintenance. Proper fertilization encourages growth of shoots and leaves, which is essential for increasing crop load and decreasing tree stress.

Pecan Leaf Sampling

Nutrient management is essential for a successful pecan orchard or grove. With the high cost of fertilizer and the labor required for application, it is critical to accurately account for the nutrient needs of the tree for successful pecan management.

Research updates pecan tree fertilizer recommendations

Proper fertilization can decrease stress and improve the health and development of trees. Annual application of nitrogen and adequate levels of phosphorus have been shown to help reduce alternate bearing in pecan trees.

Improving Native Pecan Groves

Mother Nature has blessed several landowners in Oklahoma and Texas with a potential income enterprise. Native pecans are found along the rivers, streams and creeks in both states. On average, 35 million pounds of native pecans are harvested from both states.

Charles Rohla, Ph.D. News