Pear pruning

July 2016 | Presented by Marcel Veens, Horticultural Consultant | Pear Masterclass presentation and video

Pear trees differ from apples in growth habit, fruiting behaviour and the way varieties respond to pruning, so pruning rules need to be matched to the cultivar and production system. Marcel Veens’ Pear Masterclass presentation focuses on maintaining productive fruiting wood while controlling vigour and preserving good light distribution through the canopy.

The resource considers branch age, renewal, branch position and the need to avoid allowing permanent structure to become excessively large or shaded. Strategic removal and renewal of fruiting units helps maintain fruit quality and reduces the build-up of unproductive wood.

Pruning decisions also interact with crop load and tree vigour. A tree carrying too little crop may respond with strong vegetative growth, while excessive crop can weaken renewal and fruit quality. The pruning plan therefore needs to support a balanced tree rather than operate independently from crop management.

The accompanying video gives growers a practical reference for applying these principles to pear canopies, with the overall goal of a simple, accessible structure that supports consistent yield, quality and efficient orchard work.