Propagating Pear Trees from Seed: Cold Stratification Required

Seed Method

Most store-bought pears are hybrids; seeds won't come true. For species pears: plant seeds ½ inch deep in moist potting soil. Cold stratify 90 days (outdoors or in fridge in sealed bag). Then warm to 70°F. Sprouts in weeks. If not, repeat cold cycle.

Seedling Care

Grow under 40-watt shop light until 3–4 true leaves and 4–5 inches tall. Prick out, harden off 10 days, plant in full sun. Fruiting in 5–7 years.

Cutting Resource

For vegetative propagation, see Penn State's guide: hortweb.cas.psu.edu/...