
| Pyrus communis Common pearCulture: This is another fairly tolerant species, only caring if it gets placed in full sun. A well-drained site is best however. Unfortunately, pears tend to be extremely susceptible to fireblight, often terminally so. Commercial pear orchards in Illinois were a common sight at one time but have largely disappeared due to fireblight problems. Other problems that are not quite as serious include rusts and leaf blotches. Usage: Because of its extreme susceptibility to fireblight, this species is probably best left unplanted as an ornamental specimen tree. Rather, it is most common in an espaliered form, producing fruit and foliage against an otherwise bare wall. Numerous cultivars exist for superior fruit production. |