callery pear

The Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana 'Bradford') requires moderate watering in order to thrive. During spring and summer, water thoroughly about 2 to 3 times a week, allowing time for the soil to dry out in between waterings. Water at the base of the plant, avoiding getting the foliage wet with water. In autumn and winter, reduce watering to once a week and reduce the amount you water. This will allow the plant to go dormant for the winter. If you are having prolonged periods of dry weather throughout the year, adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Over-watering this species can lead to root rot, so please be mindful of your watering schedule.

The Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana 'Bradford') requires 8 hours of direct sunlight per day, preferably at peak hours during the day when the sun is strongest. For this species, the best times are between 11am and 5pm. During this time, the plant should receive direct, unobstructed sunlight to help it grow and develop properly. Additionally, the Callery Pear grows best in full sunlight and thrives in areas with temperatures ranging from 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. On days when there is an unexpected lack of direct sunlight, make sure to supplement the plant's exposure by providing some form of artificial light source (such as a grow light) to ensure it continues to grow effectively.

Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana 'Bradford') should be pruned each spring to help shape and maintain an attractive tree form. Pruning should generally begin in the second or third year after planting and occur annually thereafter. Most of the pruning should happen in late winter/early spring, just before new growth emerges and no later than the end of March. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or broken branches. Remove any crossing branches that could cause rubbing, leaving the dominant branch that is growing outward or up. Low growing branches can also be removed so that it has an increased clearance from the ground. After all deadwood is removed, thin by removing any branches that are growing too close together, leaving at least 6-12 inches between lateral branches. This will help promote air flow. In addition, judicious tip pruning of select branches (perhaps 1/4 to 1/3 of the total branch length) can help to maintain the desired form.