How to Ensure Good Pollination in Pear Trees

Overview

Most pears are not self-fruitful and need a compatible pollinizer that blooms simultaneously. Proper pollination dramatically increases yield.

Step 1: Choose Compatible Varieties

Plant different varieties that cross-pollinate well (e.g., Anjou and Bartlett are partially self-fertile but benefit from cross-pollination). Ensure bloom periods overlap.

Step 2: Use Honeybees Effectively

Pear blossoms have low nectar, so bees prefer other forage. Install twice as many hives as for other fruit. Place hives when ⅓ of blooms are open.

Step 3: Plant Pollinizers Close

Keep compatible varieties within 100 feet. This increases bee movement between trees and cross-pollination chances.

Step 4: Maintain Tree Health

Diseases like fire blight kill flowers, eliminating pollen. Manage diseases to protect bloom.

Step 5: Hand-Pollinate Small Trees

On dwarf or espaliered trees, use an artist’s brush to transfer pollen between varieties. Laborious but guarantees pollination.