Richard Borrie, joint owner of Orange Pippin Trees (opens in new tab) advises: ‘Fruit size is sometimes better as well because there tends to be fewer fruit, and also the tree may be putting more of its energy into the fruit rather than vegetative growth.’ Espalier are particularly ornamental as vertical garden ideas and are an impressive garden feature, so summer pruning will ensure your pear tree remains not only a productive cropper but a focal point to be admired. Summer pruning pear trees restricts growth and helps maintain a good structural shape. The prime time to summer prune espalier pear trees is from mid-July to late August, depending on the climate in the region where you live. (Image credit: Getty Images / David Burton) How to prune espalier pear trees Some of the worst cuts you can make are none at all,’ says Steve Cummins. ‘Pruning seems very intimidating when you first start, but you shouldn’t be afraid of cutting your tree. This is especially useful if you are growing pear trees in a small vegetable garden When you're learning how to prune pear trees remember that If you want to simulate growth, winter prune if you wish to restrict growth, prune in the summer. If you start pruning too early your tree will respond by throwing out lots of new luscious green foliage, whereas the aim is to concentrate energy into fruit production so wait until late summer to prune. Espalier, fan and any cordon trained pears you are growing as part of your vegetable garden trellis ideas, need summer pruning to maintain their shape.

Only take off about 20 per cent of growth the harder you prune the more vigorous the regrowth will be. The best months for pruning free-standing pear trees are the same as pruning apple trees – over the winter months once the trees are dormant.ĭepending on the region where you live, December to February can be the ideal time to perform structural pruning, which will form the framework for the forthcoming season of these flowering trees.

(Image credit: Debi Holland) What month do you prune pear trees?

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