Pears in Barr's Cottage
Pyrus communis
A hardy fruit tree for UK gardens, usually planted bare-root while dormant. It does best in full sun, in fertile, well-drained soil, with steady watering while it establishes and winter pruning to keep the crown open.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Pear
Planting Calendar
Growing Guide for
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Plant bare-root pears while they are dormant in a sheltered, sunny spot. This guide covers planting and the first stage of establishment for a new tree in the ground.
Plant the Tree
19 Oct – 27 JanPlant the bare-root tree during 19th October - 27th January. Set the graft union just above soil level, firm the soil well, stake the tree securely, and keep a wide weed-free circle around the base. Water in thoroughly straight after planting.
Water to Establish
18 Apr – 29 Septevery 2 weeksFrom 18th April through 29th September, water deeply every 14 days in dry spells for the first two summers. Do not expect meaningful fruit in the first one to two years, the tree needs time to settle and build root growth.
Thin Fruitlets
2 Jun – 17 JunAfter the natural drop has finished, thin congested fruitlets around 2nd June - 17th June. Leave one fruit per cluster, spaced well apart, so the remaining pears grow larger and the branches are less likely to strain.
Harvest Pears
15 Aug – 29 SeptPick from 15th August to 29th September when the fruit lifts away with a gentle twist. Harvest a few at a time, as pears often ripen unevenly on the tree.
Winter Prune
18 Jan – 4 MarPrune in dormant weather around 18th January - 4th March. Open out the centre, remove crossing shoots and any dead wood, and keep cuts clean so the tree stays productive and easy to pick from.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Pear.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Pear to consider
Conference
The standard UK pear for reliable cropping and good flavour. It stores well and suits most gardens.
Williams' Bon Chrétien
A well-known early pear with a juicy, aromatic flavour. Best eaten soon after picking.
Doyenné du Comice
A rich dessert pear with excellent flavour. It prefers a warm, sheltered site and can be a bit fussier than Conference.
Concorde
A compact, modern dessert pear with a good flavour and reliable cropping. Often a sensible choice for smaller gardens.
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