How to Grow Beurre Hardy Pear Trees

Overview

Beurre Hardy pear trees produce sweet, juicy dessert pears ready to eat by late summer or early fall. In spring, they produce fragrant pink and white flowers, and their leaves turn a dramatic red in the fall. Sometimes called French butter pears for their creamy flesh, these trees can grow up to 30 feet tall. Beurre Hardy pear trees need at least 6 hours of sun a day, so carefully choose an appropriate spot before planting. Although Beurre Hardy pear trees need a little extra care and attention, you will be richly rewarded with its fruits.

Step 1

Preferably in late fall, or in very late winter, dig a hole in your chosen location for the Beurre Hardy rootstock. The hole should be deep enough to make sure that the roots are well covered. The width should be three to four times the diameter of your rootstock.

Step 2

Place your Beurre Hardy rootstock into the hole, covering the roots with soil. Spread 2 inches of compost or humus on your new planting. Make sure that there is at least 4 inches between the graft and the soil.

Step 3

Thoroughly water the rootstock. Give your new planting a good drenching once a week until it is established. Trim off any damaged or dying branches.

Step 4

Starting in early spring, water your Beurre Hardy pear well once a week. Do not allow it to dry out. Discourage pests and mildew by weeding regularly and removing any damaged leaves or branches.

Step 5

Spread a 2-inch layer of compost or humus mixed over the whole area of the root stock in early spring. If you are not sure how far the roots extend, spread the compost as far as the branches extend.

Step 6

Allow the Beurre Hardy pear tree to grow for 2 years and is well established before pruning. After 2 years, prune the tree to form the shape you choose, being sure to remove both internal and external branches evenly to promote air circulation and fruit production.

Step 7

Pick Beurre Hardy pears before they are fully ripe, towards the end of August. Wrap them in paper and let them ripen for 2-3 weeks longer, to enjoy their juicy sweetness.