 When Eve tempted Adam she did so with an apple; but what about a nice... pear?
While fruitee-tutee rock-stars such as lemons, oranges and peaches get all the press, the humble pear can be a tasty treat straight from the tree, or as the hero of a summer fruit salad.
Following on from last week’s sumptuous recipe for feijoa and pear pudding, we’ve taken a quick look at how to care, for your pears!
What to plant:
Not all pears are created equal! Some pears are juicier, some trees need warmer conditions and it’s important to remember that, as some pear trees are self-sterile, they will require a different variety of pear tree placed nearby in order to cross-pollinate.
The Conference pear tree is a safe bet as it is less susceptible to disease, can handle more adverse weather conditions and does not require other trees in order to pollinate.
Consult your local garden centre team (or cook book!) to help you decide which pear trees will grow best in your area.
Where, when & how to plant
Look on the sunny side! Pear trees will thrive when planted in an area of your garden bathed in full sun.
In general, pear trees prefer soil types such as clayey, medium, sandy, or clayey loam with porous subsoil. As they do not like drenched soil, try and plant your trees in slightly sloping or raised ground. This will also protect against damage from frosty air settling in low-lying areas.
Pear trees like to stand out in a crowd. Plant your trees six-eight metres apart, giving them plenty room to grow. When planting, remember that the roots will need enough space in which to spread easily.
In milder climates these trees should be planted in autumn, but in colder regions they can also be planted in spring.
Watering and feeding:
Soak the roots for around three quarters of an hour before planting and work soil in around them to remove any pockets of air. Water thoroughly and add a half cup of fertiliser around the tree at least 15cms from the trunk.
In dryer weather ensure your trees are getting enough water. About two to three centimetres each week when there is little or no rain should be sufficient.
Harvest:
As they have sensitive skin, be gentle when harvesting. Pears left to ripen on the trees will turn brown at their cores so make sure to pick the fruit while still green. Pears will ripen well when left at room temperature for a couple of weeks.
If you cast aside the bland selection of pears available from your local shop and grow your own, you will discover a rich variety full of flavour.
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