Pear
Pyrus communis
Fruit TreeAbout Pear
The Pear tree is a long-lived, productive fruit tree grown for its sweet, juicy fruit. European and Asian pear varieties offer different flavors and textures. Pear trees are more cold-hardy than many fruit trees and are somewhat resistant to many apple diseases, though fire blight is a serious concern.
Quick Facts
How to Identify Pear
- Glossy, finely serrated, oval leaves with long petioles
- White, five-petaled blossoms in clusters in spring
- Characteristic pear-shaped fruit (European types) or round fruit (Asian types)
- Dark gray to brownish bark with shallow furrows
- Upright, pyramidal crown with strong central leader
Care Guide
- Prune to a central leader or modified central leader in late winter
- Remove fire blight-infected branches immediately, cutting 12 inches below visible infection
- Water deeply during dry periods, especially during fruit set
- Plant two compatible varieties for cross-pollination
- Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes succulent growth susceptible to fire blight
Known Issues (2)
Fire Blight
HIGHA bacterial disease that primarily affects members of the rose family, including apple and pear trees. It can destroy entire orchards in a single season. Bacteria spread rapidly during warm, wet spring weather through blossoms and wounds.
Affecting 32 regions
Apple Scab
MODERATEThe most economically important disease of apples worldwide. The fungus overwinters in fallen leaf litter and releases spores during spring rains. Severe infections reduce fruit quality and yield and can defoliate trees by mid-summer.
Affecting 26 regions