Pear tree for training

[BarryCambs]

We have finally cleared to the end of the completely overgrown wilderness garden and as of yesterday, a new fence is up for the first time since 1950! We'd like to grow a pear tree, trained along the fence. My question is, can any variety of pear be grown in this way??

Recommendations of varieties and any advice would be much appreciated!

[Lesley Jay]

I have had to dig my Ken Muir book out for this one Barry!

Pears can be trained to grow along a fence. They are called Espaliers. Ken recommends buying a maiden whip, which is a one year old tree without any side shoots and it needs to be on a Quince C rootstock. Planting time is between November and April while the tree is dormant. I have always planted fruit in November. Pears need a pollinating partner but there is one variety that I have found that is self fertile - Concorde. You can buy two year old trained espalier pear trees from Ken Muir but they are expensive.

You could also grow Cordon pear trees which are single stemed trees grown at an angle of 45 degrees so you can grow quite a few in a small area. Cordons can also be trained as Step Over Trees with two stems, like arms, in a 'T' shape. Cordons need to be on a Quince A rootstock.

.: Ken Muir :.

[BarryCambs]

Many thanks for the comprehensive reply! Looks like it's timed just right for planing in November too.