Bartlett Pear Tree - Asian Pear Tree

The Bartlett pear tree (Pyrus) is a woody, deciduous tree that produces tiny white blossoms in the spring and pomaceous fruit in the summer. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, and prefers soil that drains well. Using high-quality planting mix and fertilizer is essential for healthy growth. The Bartlett pear tree is relatively easy to grow and care for.

Pear Tree Size, Pruning, and Thinning

• Size: Bartlett pear trees can grow over 10 feet tall but can be kept smaller with regular pruning. They are typically pruned to stay under 10 feet wide.
• Pruning: Prune in winter to maintain size and promote healthy branching. Cut the tip to reduce height and encourage side branches. Remove dry twigs, growth below the main branches, and any branches crossing towards the center or growing inward where little light reaches.
• Thinning: Thin the tree during summer to remove excess branches and allow more light to reach the remaining fruit, improving fruit quality.

Watering Instructions

• Early Spring: Begin watering newly planted trees weekly when the tree leafs out.
• Spring to Summer: Increase watering frequency as temperatures rise. In hot climates, water up to 3 times per week during summer heat waves, especially in sandy loam soils.
• Fall: Gradually reduce watering as the weather cools.
• Winter Dormancy: Discontinue watering completely during winter dormancy.

Fertilization for Bartlett Pear Trees

• Winter Fertilization: Use organic fruit tree fertilizer with low nitrogen but higher phosphorus and potassium (NPK ratio 1-2-2 or 1-4-4) to promote blossoms and fruit development in spring.
• Spring Fertilization: Apply fertilizers with higher nitrogen content (e.g., 2-1-1 or 3-1-2) in early spring to encourage growth throughout the summer. Organic options like steer manure and blood meal are also effective.
• Fall: Avoid fertilizing in the fall to prevent weak growth during cooler months.
• Compost: If using compost, apply it sparingly in early spring while the weather is still cool.

Pest Management

• Winter Pest Control: Use organic horticultural oils, such as Neem oil, during the winter to reduce and prevent soft-bodied insects that appear in the spring.