Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final sizeQuince A 3-3.5m in 10 years
FruitEating pear
Pollination groupGroup C
Cropping periodMid season (October)
Description
Doyenne du Comice pears have a texture and flavour that is arguably the best of any pear variety. The juicy, melting flesh has a rich, sweet flavour and makes it worthy of its RHS Award of Garden Merit. Doyenne du Comice produces the attractive pale green pears in October and they can be stored for around 3 weeks.
This outstanding variety requires a good pollinator nearby (such as ‘Concorde’ or ‘Conference’). Whilst it may not be as reliable in its crops as some varieties, many say that it is worth it for the delicious dessert pears. Pretty white spring blossom only adds to the appeal of Doyenne du Comice Pear trees.
A heritage variety bred in the 1840s, Pyrus communis ‘Doyenné du Comice’ was brought to the UK soon after. It has been a favourite ever since.
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
