The pear tree is one of the classic fruit trees and should not be missing in any garden. So here is an explanation of how it is planted and cared for.
The pear is one of the European cultivated trees, but is also native to Asia and North Africa and is a pome fruit. Their mostly sweet fruits are very popular and are processed in many ways, e.g. on cakes, as compote and jam, in liqueurs, etc. (reading tip: Homemade gifts from the garden: 9 ideas presented)
Pear varieties can generally be divided into early and late fruit ripening, which is why people often speak of summer and autumn pears. The early-ripening, poorly storable varieties include the yellow and red Williams Christ, the colorful July pear and also the Trevoux Early. The late-ripening pear varieties that can be stored well include the Countess of Paris, Gellert's Butter Pear, Good Louise, Pastor's Pear, Condo and the Alexander Lucas. However, duo pear trees are also becoming increasingly popular. This means that two varieties grow on a pear tree, such as Gute Louise and Conference.
No matter which variety you have chosen, you should grow and care for it as described below.
Plant a pear tree
When planting, you should definitely bear in mind that many pear trees prefer a semi-shady, preferably dry location that is also loamy. A so-called support pole promotes straight tree growth. Simply ram up to three plant supports into the ground around the pear tree without damaging the roots. Then tie the tree evenly to the supports with a sisal bundle (rope).
» Order popular pear tree varieties here
Pear trees are now even offered as potted plants, e.g. for a large balcony. You must then also regularly supply these dwarf pear trees or columnar pears with fertilizer. Very young plants also need some winter protection for the first year or two, for example in the form of a fleece coat or straw mats.
Proper care for pear trees
Pear trees are very easy to care for and robust. Only animals and the pear grating can movesometimes grab the sweet fruits, but this is usually of little consequence.
➤ Fertilize:
Pear trees should be provided with plenty of compost when they are planted (in the planting hole), which makes it much easier to grow. In principle, it is not necessary to fertilize the trees in later years. However, feel free to rub in some animal manure or compost around the tree from time to time.
➤ Irrigation:
If you have just planted a pear tree, you must water it sufficiently during the first growth phase. In the following years, rainwater is usually sufficient for it to thrive. However, during long periods of drought, e.g. in summer, you should definitely water the root area of the pear tree by hand.
➤ Pruning:
The pear tree is one of the fruit trees and must therefore be pruned regularly in order to get a good harvest again. For this it is advisable to attend a fruit tree pruning course, which is offered in many garden stores or gardening associations.
The ideal time for a pear tree pruning (main pruning) is usually described as from the end of February to the beginning of March. However, the first pruning of the fruit tree can also take place in late autumn, when you should primarily remove diseased, old and damaged branches.
➤ Harvest:
Pear fruits are usually harvested in late summer when they are easy to pick from the tree. Unripe fruits can still ripen in the fruit bowl. You can store special storage pears in a cool room (e.g. in the cellar) for several months after harvesting. (Reading tip: Use fallen fruit - 4 tips)