When and How to Prune a Pear Tree

WHEN TO PRUNE PEAR TREES

Pear trees should be pruned annually in winter when they are dormant.

HOW TO PRUNE BUSH PEAR TREES

Not surprisingly pruning pear trees is similar to pruning apple trees. The principal aim is to form a wine goblet shape over the years with the centre of the tree uncluttered to let air circulate.

We will give a link to pruning apple trees lower down but it is important to understand that there are two main differences between pruning apple trees and pear trees. Pear trees bear their fruit closer to the main branches compared to apples. For this reason allow around 8 main branches to form rather than the four or five of an apple tree.

The second difference which affects how to prune pear trees is that the braches aren't as strong as those of apple trees and are liable to snap . To build up the strength of the branches, prune as for apple trees but continue the formative pruning for eight years rather than four. This means repeating the pruning for year four through years five to eight. This will build up the strength of the pear tree branches. Click here to see the pictures on how to prune.

THINNING OUT FRUIT

In mid June pear trees will naturally drop some fruit. When this has finished, around mid July thin out the fruits even more. As a guide, snip of fruits so that the remaining fruits are roughly 10cm (4in) apart. Harsh though this may seem it will greatly assist the remaining fruit to develop to a good size.

HARVESTING PEARS

Pears need to be harvested at the correct time to be enjoyed at their best. Very early pears can be eaten immediately they are picked from the tree. Look out for when the skin begins to change colour at the bottom of the pear.

Early pears will need about a week in storage before they are at their best for eating. Pick them when the flesh begins to change colour around the stalk and store for a week before eating. See below for storage.

CLICK HERE FOR HOW TO CARE FOR A BUSH PEAR TREE

PREVIOUS PAGE, HOW TO PLANT YOUR PEAR TREE