How to Crown a Pear Tree

Pruning the crown, or top, of a pear tree allows light to reach the root system, stimulating the growth of the branches and fruit. Some hardwood fruit trees, including pear trees, feature several crown branches that don’t allow sunlight to touch and revitalize the lower branches and roots. Before crowning your pear tree, learn what branches to cut and when to cut them to prevent harming the tree and its fruit.

Masking tape
Stepladder
Pruning shears
Saw

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the tree before pruning and mark the branches slated for removal based upon their appearance and health. Using a piece of masking tape, mark the branches that are broken or severely damaged, growing vertically or that create an aesthetically unpleasant finished look. Leave any horizontally growing shoots, as these help stabilize the tree.
- 2
  Climb a stepladder and begin cutting the predetermined branches with sharp pruning shears or a sharp saw, depending on the size and width of the branch. Make the cut approximately one-quarter to one-half inch above any budding to encourage new, healthy growth.
- 3
  Step down off the tree and examine your work after the first round of cutting. If more cutting is required to create an attractive, round shape; prune additional branches. Choose branches that are damaged or growing vertically rather than horizontally.

Removing Cane From an Areca Palm

How to Fertilize Waterfall Maple

Trees