Asian Pear

Asian pear requires full sun — a minimum of 8 hours daily. Adequate sun is critical not only for fruit production but also for initiating the flower buds that will produce next year's crop. Plant in an open, unshaded location.

Water moderately with consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. NE Florida's sandy soils drain quickly; drip irrigation or regular deep watering prevents drought stress. Avoid waterlogging, which promotes root disease.

Plant in well-drained, fertile sandy loam with a slightly acidic pH. Graft onto Pyrus calleryana rootstock for best performance in Florida soils. Fertilize with a balanced fruit-tree fertilizer in late winter and early summer; avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes fire blight susceptibility.