How to Take Care of a Pear Tree

Overview

Pear trees, while not being the easiest tree to grow, are well worth the effort. They can live up to 75 years and give you a bounty of fruit. Most pear trees are hardy between USDA zones 5 to 8, and grow well in areas without hot summers. However, in order for a pear tree to bear fruit you will need two trees for cross pollination. With many varieties to choose from, you should be able to find a pear tree to suit your needs.

Step 1

Choose an area to plant the pear trees. They should be planted in partial sun, as too much sun during the summer can harm the tree. Each tree should be planted about 15 to 20 feet away from each other.

Step 2

Test the PH of your soil. Pears need a PH of 6.5 to thrive. Also, pears need thick soil that holds water well and stays cool in the summer. Clay soil works best. If your soil is thin or sandy, work a thick layer of clay into it. Be sure the clay is worked into the soil to a depth of about 10 to 15 feet, as pears have deep roots.

Step 3

Plant the pear trees. Dig a hole about 2 to 3 feet deep and place the tree inside. Cover with soil.

Step 4

Water your pear trees every other day for 5 to 10 minutes each watering. The soil around the trees needs to be moist at all times for proper growth.

Step 5

Prune your pear trees in early spring. Cut off any crossing branches, or branches growing vertically at the base of the tree. Prune any dead or damaged branches as well. Space branches about 8 to 10 inches a part, sticking out horizontally from the trunk of the tree.

Step 6

Harvest pears in late summer. A pear is ripe when it twists off the tree easily.