Age and Size

• Pear trees are available in standard size, growing 30 to 40 feet in height, or as dwarf trees, growing to a height of approximately 15 feet. Standard-size pear trees bear fruit four to six years after planting, while dwarf pear trees begin to bear fruit one to three years earlier. Trees acquired from nurseries are usually 1 to 2 years old. A dwarf tree will bear approximately a bushel of pears per year, while a standard pear tree will yield five to 10 bushels annually.
  
  

Pollination

• Most varieties of pears are not self-fruitful, which means they require another variety of pear planted in close proximity to bear fruit. Not all varieties of pear will pollinate one another. For instance, Bosc and Bartlett will pollinate each other, but Seckel and Bartlett will not. Pollination is done by insects, such as bees, and the trees need to be planted within 40 to 50 feet of one another.
  
  

Flowers & Fruit

• Pear flowers emerge in the spring before the foliage. They are pale while and approximately 1-1/4 inches in diameter. Pear blossoms have a short season during which bees can pollinate them. Pollinated flowers form into fruit by late summer or early fall, depending on variety.
  
  

Harvesting

• Pears are ready for harvest when the fruit becomes firm but not hard. This is generally in August or September, depending on your location and the variety of pear. Some varieties may change from green to yellow as they ripen. Fruits develop a better texture and flavor if picked and allowed to ripen off the tree. They will ripen in one to two weeks stored in a well-ventilated area at room temperature.