Pear Tree Facts
Pear trees are an easy-to-grow fruit tree that is less susceptible to common orchard pests and illnesses. If the fruit is picked early—while still green on the tree—pears keep for several months in storage. Available in standard semi-dwarf and dwarf sizes, pear trees are suitable for any size garden.
Planting
Pear trees are susceptible to damage from strong winds. All varieties should be staked for the first three to five years.
Sizes
Dwarf pear trees rarely exceed 8 feet in height and can be grown in containers. Standard trees can exceed 20 feet.
- Pear trees are an easy-to-grow fruit tree that is less susceptible to common orchard pests and illnesses.
- Dwarf pear trees rarely exceed 8 feet in height and can be grown in containers.
Requirements
Pear trees should be planted in full sun with good drainage. Pears are grown in zones 5 through 9 and prefer a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Fertilizers
Pears should be fertilized in early springs, about 2 weeks before flowering. Fertilizers that contain high amounts of nitrogen will encourage suckering.
Pruning
Pear trees are commonly pruned into a “wine goblet” shape. The technique removes center branches to encourage air circulation.
Pollination
Most pear cultivars are self-unfruitful, meaning they need another cultivar to bear fruit. Self-fertile varieties do not require it, but will produce better crops when a matching variety is nearby.
- Pear trees should be planted in full sun with good drainage.
- Most pear cultivars are self-unfruitful, meaning they need another cultivar to bear fruit.
Cut A Pear Tree
Remove dead, damaged or diseased branches throughout the year, including the growing season. Pear trees' branches have a tendency to break in bad weather such as a windy day or snowstorm. Clean pruners thoroughly after cutting branches. Cut straight through branches to avoid tearing and excessive damage to the tree. Shape the tree by removing sucker growth on the lower part of the trunk. Remove any growth coming from the roots. Reduce competition between inner growth by removing especially large branches with the pruners. In most cases pear trees do not need shaping and maintain a curved symmetrical shape. However, if branches are damaged or removed, the tree may need reshaping. Remove cuttings from the area, especially any that may be diseased. Dispose of the cuttings properly based on your routine or regulations in your community.
- Remove dead, damaged or diseased branches throughout the year, including the growing season.
- Cut straight through branches to avoid tearing and excessive damage to the tree.
