While pears can be grown from a graft or cutting, planting them from seeds is becoming more popular. Pear trees planted from seeds have a wider variety of genes, thereby yielding a hardier, more adaptable, and more diverse crop. Additionally, growing pear trees from seeds is not as difficult and complicated as you might think. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow pears from seeds.
Step 1: Collect Pear Seeds
Before you start planting pear seeds, you need to gather them from ripened fruit. The best time to collect them is when the pears are starting to rot or turn brown, which is an indication that the seeds are mature. Cut the pear open to reveal the seed compartment, remove the seeds, wash them, and dry them on paper towels. Leave the seeds in the open air for a few days to allow them to dry fully.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Find a spot in your garden that receives full sunlight and has well-draining soil. Dig a hole about 12 inches deep and 1 foot in diameter. Add compost or organic fertilizer to the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. Mix the soil thoroughly to ensure that the compost is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Plant the Seeds
Pear seeds are easy to plant as they do not require pre-germination or stratification. Place the pear seeds in the hole about 1 inch deep and cover them with soil. Water the soil thoroughly to moisten it but avoid overwatering.
Step 4: Take Care of Your Pear Seedling
Your seedling will sprout in about four to six weeks. Once the seedling emerges, ensure that it receives adequate sunlight and water. Keep the soil moist but not wet, as overwatering may damage the plant. As the seedling grows, prune it occasionally to stimulate a robust and healthy root system. Pruning keeps the plant aerated, ensuring that it does not become crowded, and averts competition for nutrients.
Step 5: Transplant Your Pear Tree
After one year, your pear tree will have outgrown its original hole. Dig another hole about two feet deep and 1.5 feet in diameter, 20-30 feet apart from other trees if you plan on planting more than one. Gently lift the pear tree from its original hole and transfer it to the new hole. Make sure the roots are covered with soil and do not expose any roots in the process.
Step 6: Take Care of Your Pear Tree
After transplanting, your pear tree will require a lot of care to grow and thrive. Ensure that it receives full sunlight, water, and fertilizer. Prune the tree regularly to remove damaged or diseased branches and promote growth. Monitor the tree for pests and diseases, and take appropriate action if necessary. For the first two to three years, stake the tree to provide support for its fragile root system.
In conclusion, growing pears from seeds is a satisfying and easy process that anyone can undertake at home. It requires patience, dedication, and care to see a seed grow into a flourishing and productive pear tree. With a little bit of hard work, you can enjoy juicy, sweet pears straight from your own backyard.