How To Pollinate A Pear Tree

Question

Established pear tree is healthy and flowers every year. However, no fruit is produced. I wonder if it needs to be pollinated – if so, how do I do this?

Answer 1

No, there are likely many insects in the area. This will not be necessary. It is likely a soil fertility or pH issue.

Testing your soil will reveal what needs to be done in order to bring it back up to par. These articles will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/soil-ph-plants.htm

If you happen to have a pear cultivar that is not self fertile, then you will need a pollinizer tree in your yard. This will be a compatible pear variety to yours. You will need to consult the nursery that you bought your tree from in order to find out what will be compatible with your tree.

This article will help you with the care of pears:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/pear/growing-pear-trees.htm

Answer 2

Thanks BushDoctor for your guidance. Over the last few days, the tree has become obviously distressed and many of the leaves are turning black. I fear I am going to lose it. I have not yet checked the soil, but it seems more likely that insects are the problem - particularly since the flowers were so healthy and plentiful. Would it do any harm to spray with an insecticide?