From Soil to Success at Swift River Pecans

Apr 15

Hi, y’all! Johanna here from the TX Soil Sisters.

( The podcast media player is below w/ links to things we talk about. Or skip my fluff and listen here.)

Crystal and I drove fifteen minutes up the road to Swift River Pecans headquarters for this podcast discussion with Troy Swift, the president of the Texas Pecan Growers Association.

**Meet Our Guest:** **Troy Swift, Swift River Pecans**
Troy and his wife began growing and harvesting pecans in 1998, and since then, have planted and/or grafted over 1,000 pecan trees across two orchards on 266 acres located in Caldwell County, Texas.. They also opened a retail store where they sell pecans, lumber, large wood slabs, firewood, and other related products and services.
Everything produced at Swift River Pecans —from their award-winning pecans to their local honey—comes from along the San Marcos River, ensuring that local and fresh is what they do best. Year-round, rain or shine, they’re proud to be known as your Texas pecan people.

Troy started off the tour by showing us his research binder outlining the history of his transitioning from conventional pecan farming to experimenting with regenerative agriculture and natural solutions to common problems amongst pecan growers.

We then made our way through the orchard and down to the San Marcos River where we recorded our podcast conversation amongst a grove of giant, old native pecan trees.

On the podcast, Troy explains that he didn't initially set out to become a pecan farmer. His journey began in 1998 with the purchase of his first farm near Staples, Texas, mainly due to his love for the San Marcos River and canoeing. Eventually, he found himself amidst old pecan orchards, prompting him and his wife to embrace pecan farming. Over time, circumstances led Troy to explore regenerative agricultural practices. One such pivotal moment occurred when he noticed some of his Sioux variety pecan trees beginning to decline. This challenge spurred his deep dive into soil health and the use of cover crops.

During our chat, Troy discusses things he’s studied and practices he’s implemented as a result - functions like induced systemic acquired resistance (SAR), the use of beneficial insects, birds, and bats, and innovative methods to enhance tree and soil health. Troy also explains his diversified farming operations, emphasizing the importance of vertical integration and sustainable practices.

This Soil Sisters' chat with Troy is rich with practical insights, making it a must-listen no matter what you're farming.

Happy farming and healthy living, y’all.

Jo (and Crystal) ❤️

P.S. Receive Our TX Soil Sisters Newsletter by Signing Up Here. And Join Our Co-Op Here. 🙌

💚 Our Sponsors walk the walk & talk the talk. 💚

✨ @tejastonic - The official beverage of the TX Soil Sisters ✨

When you buy Tejas Tonic you’re supporting a Texas farm that's vertically integrated into Texas-made products. The hemp for this blissful bevvy is organically farmed in the Texas Hill Country. Enjoy 15% off Tejas Tonic w/ code: SISTERS 💰

⚡️ @b_pelectric - The Soil Sisters Podcast is powered by B&P Electric ⚡️

Whether you’re building, remodeling, installing low-voltage landscape lighting, or in need of an inspection. B&P is your central Texas electrical contractor. Tell ‘em the Soil Sisters sent you. 😎