The Williams pear tree, also called Bartlett, is a beloved fruit tree known for producing sweet, juicy pears. With its glossy green leaves and white blossoms, this tree is as beautiful as it is productive. Williams pear trees thrive in sunny spots with well-draining soil, and with the right care, they can live for over 250 years!
You can grow them from cuttings or seeds, but planting a young tree is the fastest route to delicious fruit. It typically takes 3-5 years to start seeing pears, but the wait is worth it.
Popular Pear Varieties
Care
- Water: Williams pear trees like a steady amount of moisture. Water them deeply but not too often, aiming to keep the soil consistently damp, but not soggy. Overwatering can cause problems like root rot.
- Light: These pear trees love sunlight. Make sure they get at least six hours of direct sunlight every day for the best growth and fruit production.
- Soil: Williams pears prefer well-drained soil, so sandy or loamy soil works best. Adding compost or organic matter can boost soil health and help with drainage.
- Temperature: Williams pear trees thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 7, needing cold winters to grow well. They require about 800 hours of chilling time, which means temperatures should be between 32 and 45°F.
Planting & Growing
Williams pear trees can be grown from either cuttings or seeds, but starting from cuttings is quicker and more reliable. You can take softwood cuttings in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
For those feeling adventurous, you can also grow a pear tree from seed, though it might not have the same traits as the parent tree. Plant pear trees in early spring or late fall, keeping them about 15-20 feet apart so they have space to grow. It usually takes 3-5 years for the tree to start producing pears, so be patient! Make sure your tree gets lots of sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Pruning
Pruning your Williams pear tree keeps it healthy, helps shape it, and boosts fruit production. The best time to prune is during the dormant season, in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. If you’re growing a cordon pear tree, summer pruning with a light winter trim works best. Regular pruning removes dead or overcrowded branches, allowing sunlight and air to reach all parts of the tree, which helps prevent diseases and promotes better fruit.
Want to know more about how and when to prune? Check out our full guide below for all the details!
Common Pests
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Williams Pears need a pollinator?
Williams pears can grow fruit without pollination, but pollination helps them produce more. They can still reach full size even without being fertilized.
What are the best conditions for growing pears?
Plant pear trees in a sunny, sheltered spot, like an open yard or along a wall. Make sure the soil is deep, rich, and drains well to avoid root rot.
Why is my pear tree dying?
Common pear tree diseases include fire blight, pear scab, and leaf spots, which are often worsened by bad weather. Keeping an eye on these issues can help you treat them early.
How long do pear trees live?
Pear trees can live up to 250 years! Their white flowers grow in clusters, and their fruit is enjoyed by many birds.
