How Do I Plant Pear Seeds?

Pear trees are considered to be one of the easiest types of fruit trees to grow, and pear seeds can be obtained from a few sources. These seeds should be planted in well-fertilized soil just before the first frost. After you plant the pear seeds, you should water the area. In the spring, the sapling may need to be staked.

Pear seeds can be purchased from a nursery, gardening store, or catalog. They can also be obtained for free after eating a pear. Keep in mind, however, that pear trees cross pollinate. This means that pear seeds obtained from the actual fruit will not necessarily produce the same fruit.

Before planting your pear seeds, you must choose a spot to plant them. A relatively sunny spot is ideal. The area should also have a wind barrier to help prevent saplings from getting blown over.

Slightly acidic soil is considered to be best for planting pear seeds. If the soil is too alkaline, adding a small amount of sulfur can make it more acidic. Also, heavy soils that stay moist are preferred.

Typically, pear seeds need to be in cold temperatures for a few months before they can germinate, or begin growing. This is often referred to as stratification. In areas with cold winters, the seeds can be planted in late autumn, before the first frost. In warmer climates, pear seeds can be stored in a refrigerator for a few months before planting in the spring.

When you have decided where to plant your pear seeds, dig a hole in the soil. This should be a couple inches (five centimeters) deep. You can then mix organic fertilizer, like compost, with the same amount of potting soil.

Add this to the bottom of the hole before dropping a seed in. Cover the seed the rest of the way with a mixture of fertilizer and potting soil. Cover the entire area with mulch, and water thoroughly. It is also a good idea to mark the area with a brightly colored stake or fence.

In the spring, after the last frost, watch for the saplings to emerge. They should be watered a few times each week during normal weather. If it gets too dry, water the saplings more. Generally, the soil should be kept moist. As the saplings grow larger, they should be tied loosely to a wooden stake. This will keep the trees straight as they grow.