How to grow Pear in the UK
Pyrus communis
Pear (Pyrus communis) is a fruit that grows well in UK gardens. Pick under-ripe and finish indoors — leave on tree and they go grainy. Conference is the dependable choice. This guide covers when and how to sow Pear, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Pear
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Plant · Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Deep, fertile, well-drained soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.0
- Position
- Sun and shelter for good pollination
- Sowing depth
- Plant to the original soil mark; stake bare-root trees
- Spacing
- 3–4.5 m (depends on rootstock)
- Sowing
- Plant bare-root Nov–Mar; needs a pollination partner; flowers early so frost-prone
- Growing
- Water well for the first 3 years; mulch and feed in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Prune in winter; thin fruit; pick slightly under-ripe and ripen indoors
- Watch for
- Pear midge, scab, codling moth
Companion planting for Pear
Grows well with:
Add Pear to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Pear FAQs
What grows well with Pear?
Pear grows well alongside Chives, Comfrey, Garlic, Lavender, Nasturtium. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Pear need?
Pear prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Pear ready to harvest?
Pear is typically ready to harvest in September, October, November in the UK.
Is Pear easy to grow?
Moderate. Pick under-ripe and finish indoors — leave on tree and they go grainy. Conference is the dependable choice.