Pear Seeds - Birchleaf Pear
(Pyrus betulifolia) Zones 4 - 8. Small, deciduous tree.
The Birchleaf Pear is a quick growing, wild pear from northern Asia. Its cold-hardiness and disease resistance has made this tree a choice rootstock among orchardists.
The fruit is small, only about the size of a cherry, but it will provide an autumn food source for wildlife in your area. They can also be gathered and made into jellies or bottled whole for a Mid-Winter treat.
Apple-like blossoms come on in late Spring and are just buzz with pollinators!
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Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 8
Edible: Yes
Size: Medium Tree
Growth Rate: Medium - Slow
Nitrogen Fixer: No
Native Plant: No
Germination: Naturally low 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!
