The pear is one of the most important temperate zone fruits, exceeded only by apples in worldwide importance. Pears grow best in arid climates with well-drained, irrigated soils. In the United States widespread production has been limited by the destructive bacterial disease, Fire Blight. Even though pears tolerate wet soils better than other fruit trees, avoid poorly drained soils since pear blossoms open very early.
Spring frosts can eliminate or reduce fruit-set.
Having honeybees in the neighborhood can help improve fruit-set. Apply fertilizer after the ground thaws in the spring but before blossom time. For trees over 10 years old, use 5 to 10 pounds per tree. Apply a nitrogen fertilizer every three to four years. Rootstock and Variety Selection Quince has been the standard rootstock used to produce dwarf pear trees.