Pear
Photo: Keith Weller · Public domain
outdoor gardenadvancedgraftingstem cutting

How to Propagate Pear

Pyrus communis

Methods Grafting, stem cutting (hardwood)
Difficulty Advanced
Best season Winter (dormant)
Time to root Months
Group Outdoor / garden

Like apple, pear is almost always grafted commercially, since seed-grown pears vary unpredictably and take many years to fruit. Hardwood cuttings can be attempted but have a low success rate.

Stem cutting (hardwood)

Dormant hardwood cuttings taken in winter can be attempted, inserted into well-draining soil, though success is inconsistent.

Grafting

The standard, reliable method for known fruit varieties.

When to propagate

Winter, while dormant.

Common problems

Cuttings failed to root. Common with this species — most home growers buy an already-grafted tree rather than attempting cuttings.

Questions people ask

Can I graft a pear onto an apple tree? No — despite being related fruits, they’re not compatible for grafting; pear needs pear or quince rootstock.

Similar plants: Apple