Pear Seeds - Ussurian
(Pyrus ussuriensis) Deciduous. Zones 3-7. Ussurian Pear is the most cold-hardy of all pears, which makes it a great choice for Northern climates.
This pear variety had been almost forgotten, but its gaining in popularity - and we can see why! It is absolutely smothered in breathtaking white flowers in Spring! Its beautiful glossy green leaves transform to brilliant shades of orange and burgundy in Fall. It's also self-pollinating!
It's a gorgeous ornamental, but bears edible fruit too! The small, round, yellow pears are hard and bitter, but they sweeten after a hard frost and make deliciously tangy juice and jellies.
Ussurian Pear grows quickly and reaches 35 feet at maturity. Its low canopy and spreading habit make it a great choice for a windbreak. Foraging wildlife and nesting songbirds enjoy its low, dense branches and abundant fruit.
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Cold Hardiness: Zones 3 - 7
Edible: Yes
Size: Medium Tree
Growth Rate: Medium - Fast
Nitrogen Fixer: No
Native Plant: No
Germination: Naturally lower 50 - 70%
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Soil Preference: Prefers, moist well draining loam.
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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
- Soak Seeds 24 hrs. Follow with 90 days cold, moist stratification. For more information on stratification, check out our article "How To Stratify Your Tree Seeds".
*If you are doing the cold period in your fridge, please check on your seeds. 90 days is an estimate & they may sprout sooner.*
- Plant stratified seeds in pots or a nursery bed using standard potting soil. Heat mats are NOT required & can hinder germination!
- Protect young tree seedlings from slugs, cutworms & rodents. Slugs especially can eat primary leaves as soon as they come up, so be vigilant!
