Permapotes

Pear tree

Pear tree: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar

The pear tree, Pyrus communis, belongs to the rose family and is grown for European pears. This woody perennial loses its leaves in autumn and passes through a dormant period. Its green foliage consists of simple, often oval leaves on branches whose outline changes with age, cultivar and tree form. It therefore provides a lasting presence in a garden, extending well beyond the period when fruit is visible on the branches.

Cultivated pear trees are usually grafted. The fruiting cultivar determines characteristics of the pears, while the rootstock influences the vigour and dimensions of the tree as a whole. Two trees of the same cultivar can consequently reach different sizes. Free-standing trees, cordons and espaliers also have very different outlines. A compact tree does not necessarily belong to a cultivar with small fruit: tree size and the size of its pears are separate characteristics.

Spring blossom consists of clusters of small white flowers, usually with five petals. It adds ornamental interest and provides resources for visiting insects. Pear formation depends in part on pollination. Many cultivars crop better alongside a compatible different cultivar flowering at the same time; partial self-fertility does not ensure a regular harvest in every situation. The flowers and developing fruit are also affected by variations in weather.

Pears are not all the same shape. Some are elongated with a pronounced neck, while others are rounder or broader. Their skin may be green, yellow, flushed red or covered in russeting. The flesh combines sweetness, juice and a range of aromas. Depending on cultivar and ripeness, it may become meltingly soft or retain more firmness. Small stone cells account for the sometimes slightly gritty sensation, which is distinct from the pips held inside the core.

‘Williams’, ‘Conférence’ and ‘Général Leclerc’ illustrate the diversity of familiar cultivars. Pears are enjoyed fresh and feature in tarts, fruit sauces, chocolate desserts and dishes pairing fruit with cheese. Some hold their shape during cooking better than others. Ripening periods and keeping qualities also vary. A pear tree thus combines blossom, seasonal foliage, flavours and a winter silhouette, with an appeal that changes through the seasons and across the years.

Pear tree
Pear tree
Characteristics
  • Exposure : Full Sun
  • Cultivation Difficulty : Easy
  • Mature height : 500 cm
Maintenance
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Water Requirements : Moderate
Other characteristics
  • Soil Type : Humus-rich
  • Soil pH Preference : Neutral
  • Pest Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Disease Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Weed Sensitivity : Low
  • Pollination : Insect-pollinated
  • Propagation : Cutting