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How to Grow Pear Tree

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Pear Tree (Pyrus communis)

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Supplies You'll Need

Large Garden Pot Fruit Tree Fertilizer Garden Netting Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Pyrus communis
Category fruit_tree
Type Deciduous Tree
Days to Maturity 1825 days
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

Water

Moderate (1 inch/week)

Spacing

20 ft apart

Height

6-20 ft

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Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Pear seeds do not grow true. Propagate by grafting or budding onto compatible rootstock.

Cold-stratify pear seeds for 8–10 weeks if growing seedlings for rootstock purposes.

Pear Tree Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Pear Tree Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Pear Tree? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Pear Tree in early spring, 6 weeks before your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Pear Tree take to grow? +

Pear Tree is a long-lived plant — expect the first real harvest about 5 years after planting, once established.

Should I start Pear Tree indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Pear Tree isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Pear Tree need? +

Pear Tree requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Pear Tree? +

Space Pear Tree plants 240 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Pear Tree need? +

Pear Tree has moderate (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Pear Tree? +

Pear Tree is not typically propagated by seed. Pear seeds do not grow true. Propagate by grafting or budding onto compatible rootstock. Cold-stratify pear seeds for 8–10 weeks if growing seedlings for rootstock purposes.

About Pear Tree

Sweet, gritty-fleshed fruit tree that thrives in most of the US. Requires cross-pollination with another pear variety. Harvest in late summer to fall. First fruit in 3-6 years.

Expect your Pear Tree to be ready for harvest in approximately 1825 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.