Pear Tree: Pyrus Communis: Conference

Conference Pear Tree - Pyrus Communis

Grow Britain's favourite pear with the classic Conference variety. This widely renowned pear tree is one of the most popular and reliable varieties for UK gardens, producing abundant crops of delicious, sweet dessert pears. Conference is partially self-fertile, meaning it can set fruit without a pollinator (though crops are heavier with one), making it an easy, low-maintenance choice for home fruit growing.

Key Features

• Partially Self-Fertile: Can produce fruit alone, though crops are heavier with a pollinator
• Excellent Flavour: Sweet, juicy flesh with classic pear taste
• Reliable Cropping: Produces heavy, consistent crops year after year
• Distinctive Appearance: Lime green pears with attractive bronze russeting
• Beautiful Blossom: White flowers in spring create a stunning display
• Hardy: Vigorous and reliable in UK conditions
• Good Keeper: Pears store well for several weeks

Growing Information

Ultimate Height: 4-8m
Ultimate Spread: 4-8m
Pollinator Group: Group 3 (partially self-fertile)
Harvest Time: October to November
Growth Rate: Moderate
Position: Full sun, sheltered from cold winds
Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil
Hardiness: Fully hardy (H5)

Planting & Care

Plant in autumn or early spring in moist, well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Position in full sun in a sheltered spot protected from cold winds and late frosts. Water regularly during the first two growing seasons and during dry spells in summer. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early spring. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune in winter when dormant to maintain shape and encourage fruiting. Thin fruit in June if crops are very heavy. Harvest pears when still firm and allow to ripen indoors for best flavour.

Perfect For

• Home fruit growing and kitchen gardens
• Eating fresh as a dessert fruit
• Cooking and baking
• Making preserves
• Medium to large gardens
• Adding spring blossom to gardens
• Reliable fruit production

Why Choose Conference Pear?

Conference is Britain's most popular pear variety for excellent reasons. It's reliable, heavy-cropping, and produces delicious pears with classic sweet flavour. The distinctive russeted skin and excellent keeping qualities make it perfect for home growing. While partially self-fertile, planting with another pear in group 3 (such as Williams or Doyenne du Comice) will increase yields significantly.

Available at Stoneybrook Nursery, Lancashire - Quality fruit trees for UK gardens.