Pear

Garden Help > Fruits & Nuts

UC Links

How to grow: UC Backyard Orchard, Pear

Pest management: Pears

Pruning video: Video: Winter Pruning of Apple & Pear Trees

The Basics

When to plant: January–March

Harvest window: August–October, depending on variety

Fertilization: Nitrogen in spring and fall, additional applications based on tree age, health, and soil quality

Annual care overview:

• Dormant sprays as needed to control scale, aphids, mites, and overwintering psylla
• Fruit thinning if crop is heavy; recommended 6" space between fruit
• Monitor and control for common pests & diseases, such as fireblight, codling moth, and pear scab

More Links

• When to Pick the Perfect Pear (Oregon State Extension)
• Asian pear selection and harvesting (Penn State Extension)

Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

European: Bartlett, Comice, Seckel (French Butter) and Winter Nelis

Asian (Nashi): Chojuro, Hosui,Nishiumura Wase (needs to be pollinated to "chocolate up), Seuri, Shinko and Ya Li. There are no climate or soil restrictions on growing Asian pears in this area.

^* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.