When do you prune pear trees?

Deciduous fruit trees, such as pear trees, should be pruned in midwinter. Pruning during the dormant season gives the wounds a chance to heal over. Pruning done during the growing season can expose the trees to fire blight, a bacterial disease.

Pear trees are commonly chosen for home orchards, as they produce sweet fruits that are used in many dishes. The pear tree does best in full sun, and wild pear trees mature to a height of 40 feet, though semi-dwarf varieties are available. Pruning pear trees while they are young allows them to have an open center, which lets them get the most sunlight.