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Pear Tree
Pyrus communis
Long-lived orchard trees that reward careful pruning with buttery fruit.
Sun
Full sun
Water
Deep monthly first 2 years
Soil
Deep loam, pH 6.0–7.0
Spacing
3–5 m (dwarf); 6–8 m (standard)
Days to harvest
1st fruit year 3–5
Hardiness
Zones 4–8
Seasonal Calendar
S
S
S
H
H
H
S
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Sow Harvest
The method
- 1
Pick a pollinator partner
Most pears need a second variety flowering at the same time.
- 2
Plant in a sheltered spot
Pears flower early — a spring frost can wipe out the crop.
- 3
Train as an espalier
Excellent for walls; keeps trees compact and productive.
- 4
Pick under-ripe, ripen indoors
Pears rot on the tree. Pick when firm and finish ripening on a cool shelf.
Common problems
Pear rust
Remove nearby junipers if possible; rake fallen leaves.
Fireblight
Cut affected branches back 30 cm into healthy wood; sterilize tools.
Good neighbors
ChiveComfreyNasturtium
Field tips
- “'Conference' is a classic — reliable, self-fertile and forgiving.”
- “Store pears cool, then bring to room temp for 2 days before eating.”