Pyrus communis, Pyrus pyrifolia
Family: Rosaceae

Pears have their origins in Europe, the Caucasus and China. They have been cultivated since ancient times, though quality forms were not developed until the 19th century. Today, many thousands of varieties can be found in many parts of the world, particularly Europe and North America. Though some trees have ornamental value, the pear is grown mainly for its fruit. Pears are eaten fresh and are delicious poached or made into tarts. They create an interesting surprise in a tossed salad, particularly combined with walnuts and blue cheese. Commercially, they are canned and dried.

Varieties

Pyrus communis, European pear, is a very large tree, often growing 10-12 m (33-40 ft) in good conditions. However, varieties of pear for cultivation at home and commercially are budded or grafted onto root-stocks that are less vigorous. 'Anjou' is a well known, late-maturing cultivar with fruits of good flavor. Beurre Bosc' is a very hardy pear, best in cooler climates, whose fruits have a tine flavor. 'Clapp's Favourite' is also very hardy and bears early, sweet fruits. 'Doyenne du Cornice' has large fruits of excellent flavor. 'Seckle' is very popular and bears small, sweet, mid-season fruits.

Most European pears are not self-fertile and need a pollinator to ensure good cropping. Obtain advice from a fruit specialist on which varieties to grow together. Asian pears, bred from Pyrus pyrifolia and Pyrus ussuriensis, are becoming more widely grown around the world and are better suited to warmer, sunnier climates, their chilling requirements being less than those of the European pear. Cultivars of Asian pears can be pollinated by European pears, although they are partially self-fertile.

Cultivation

As pear trees are deciduous, purchase bare-rooted trees and plant in winter, during dormancy. Container-grown stock can be planted out at any time of year, but winter to early spring is probably the best time. Pears prefer deep, fertile, well-drained soil, so plenty of organic matter should be dug in about a month before planting.

Plant at the same depth at which they were growing in either the ground or the container. Water well to settle the soil, but do not apply fertilizer at this time. Fertilizer can be applied to the root zone once growth is under way, at the end of winter or in early spring. In subsequent years, apply complete plant food in late winter and mulch during the growing season with manure or compost.

Trees should be kept moist when in active growth. Prune in winter to an open vase shape, or to develop the central leader system. Pear trees should begin bearing in four to five years and should continue for many years. The most serious pests of pears are caterpillars, which eat the leaves, and aphids, which can damage and weaken shoot tips. Several diseases attack pears; undoubtedly the most trouble-some is scab disease.

Climate

European pears are best in zones 6 to 8, but Asian pears are better in warmer climates.