All Species > Pyrus communis

Late Dormancy (Invalid DateTime – Invalid DateTime)

• Watering: Begin monitoring soil moisture more closely as temperatures rise. Water sparingly, only if the root zone is drying out. Do not allow the rootball to freeze when wet.
• Fertilization: Do not fertilize yet. The tree is still dormant and not actively taking up nutrients.
• Repotting: Ideal time for repotting if necessary. Repot before buds swell. Use a well-draining mix. Root prune conservatively, especially on older specimens.
• Pruning: Perform structural pruning before bud break. Remove crossing branches and those that disrupt intended design.
• Wiring: Wiring can be done now, as branches are more flexible and visibility is high. Be cautious of wire bite as buds begin to swell.
• Bud Shoot Management: Watch for early swelling of buds. Begin bud selection for branch refinement if applicable.
• Pests Disease: Clean bark and soil surface. Apply dormant oil spray to manage overwintering pests like scale and mites.
• Winter Protection: Still protect from late frosts. Trees in containers should be monitored closely for freezing rootballs.
• Wound Management: Seal larger cuts with cut paste to prevent dieback. Avoid major trunk chops in cold weather.
• Deadwood Carving: Carving can be done now on dead sections. Avoid working green wood.
• Propagation: Hardwood cuttings may be attempted but success is low. Better options come later in the year.
• Development: Focus is on structural changes like repotting and initial wiring. This is a foundational period.
• Display: Not typically displayed in this season. Tree is dormant and aesthetics are minimal.