My Birthday Pear Tree

[Ric.ror]

I have just planted my pear tree in the garden
Firstly I am not sure I have dug it deep enough down but I have topped up with potting compost
Secondly I am a little bit worried about the coming winter (i know but its a pressie from my grandaughter so I want it to survive)
Any suggestions to protect it?
I was thinking of putting a few supporting posts as we are due winds at the weekend but what about any frosts?
Many thanks in anticipation

[Chipchopper]

Hi Ric,
The pear tree should be planted so that the 'nursery mark' a swelling just above the roots, is above the surface of the soil, this way, it will prevent the root-stock from sending up suckers and weakening the growth, this may also be known as the graft point/mark.
Staking to give, good support is always wise. You can angle the stake at 45 degrees to avoid damaging the roots but be sure not to put the stake on the windy side, otherwise it is likely to be pulled out of the ground when the wind catches the crown of the tree, also make sure it has a tie/spacer to prevent bark rubbing on the stake.
Pears flower a bit earlier than apples, so can suffer frost damage, if the position is sheltered, it will probably be ok. Otherwise it can be protected over the winter by an 'horticultural fleece'.
If there are other pear tree nearby they may act as pollinators and improve your yield.

Happy Birthday btw - Chip

[Ric.ror]

My birthday was in may btw but never mind
I was thinking the posts would cut the strength of the wind
Now this fleece - does it protect the roots or over the whole tree

[Ric.ror]

Oh how rude
Thank you for your advice chippy

[Chipchopper]

Well Ric, you could always use a mulch which will offer some frost protection to the roots, this will also assist in keeping it moist too.

If the tree is very small a fleece bag could fit over the whole tree, maybe down as far as the roots, otherwise a large sheet supported with canes would do the jop with the tree settles in for a couple of winters

[Chipchopper]

Sorry a couple of typo's but I'm sure you know what I meant.

[Ric.ror]

Thank you - this info has been most helpful