Thompson & Morgan Pear Mini Doyenne Du Comice - 9cm Pot

Indulge in the extraordinary taste of Pear 'Doyenné du Comice', a hardy variety renowned for its e...

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The Thompson & Morgan Pear 'Doyenné du Comice' is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking to cultivate exceptionally flavored, sweet pears with a melt-in-the-mouth texture. This dwarf variety is perfect for smaller spaces like patios and kitchen gardens, offering generous harvests of delicious fruit. However, optimal yields depend on a suitable pollinator being present nearby, as it is not self-fertile.

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BrandThompson & Morgan

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FAQs

What is the mature size of the 'Doyenné du Comice' pear tree?

This pear tree, grown on Quince C dwarf rootstock, typically reaches a mature height of 2.5-3m (8-10ft) and a spread of up to 45cm when fully established.

Does this pear tree need another tree to produce fruit?

Yes, 'Doyenné du Comice' is in Pollination Group 4 and is not self-fertile. For good yields, it requires a compatible pollinator pear tree (from Group 3, 4, or 5) to be planted nearby.

How long does it take for the tree to produce pears?

You can expect the first fruits approximately 2 years after planting. The tree will reach its best yielding potential in about 5 years.

When can I harvest the pears?

The harvest period for 'Doyenné du Comice' pears is typically in October. They also store very well into November.

Can I grow this pear tree in a pot on my patio?

Yes, its dwarf rootstock makes it an excellent choice for patio growing in a large container (at least 50cm in diameter) with good drainage, provided it receives full sun.

What are the ideal sun requirements for this pear tree?

This pear tree thrives in a position that receives full sun, meaning at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, for optimal growth and fruit production.

How long can I store the harvested pears?

The 'Doyenné du Comice' pears have excellent storage potential and can be stored well into November after being harvested in October.

Troubleshooting

The pear tree is not producing fruit or has very few fruits.

The 'Doyenné du Comice' is not self-fertile. Ensure you have a compatible pear tree from Pollination Group 3, 4, or 5 planted nearby for cross-pollination. Lack of full sun exposure can also reduce fruiting; ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Fruit yields are low or not as good as expected after a few years.

While first fruits appear in 2 years, best yields are achieved around 5 years. Ensure consistent watering, especially during fruit development, and annual feeding. Check for proper pruning practices to encourage fruit-bearing wood. Re-evaluate pollination sources if still experiencing low yields.

The fruits are small or of poor quality.

Ensure the tree is receiving adequate water and nutrients. Over-cropping (too many fruits for the tree's size) can lead to smaller fruits; consider thinning fruitlets in early summer to allow remaining fruits to grow larger and healthier. Full sun exposure is also critical for fruit development and sweetness.

Leaves are yellowing or showing signs of stress.

Check soil moisture levels; both overwatering and underwatering can cause stress. Ensure good drainage. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing; a balanced fertilizer can help. Inspect for pests or diseases and treat as necessary.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Outstanding sweet flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture.
  • Compact dwarf size perfect for small gardens or patio containers.
  • Excellent storage potential for harvested fruits.
  • Good yields of large, high-quality pears with proper pollination.
  • Adds ornamental value and wildlife benefits to your garden.
  • Relatively quick to produce its first fruits.

Cons

  • Not self-fertile, requiring a separate pollinator for good yields.
  • Achieving best yields takes approximately 5 years after planting.
  • Requires a full sun position for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Initial plant supplied in a small 9cm pot, requiring careful establishment.

Setup, Compatibility & Care Instructions

Setting up your 'Doyenné du Comice' pear tree for success involves thoughtful planting and ongoing care.

Planting Your Pear Tree

  1. Unpack: Gently remove the plant from its packaging upon arrival.
  2. Preparation: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. If planting in a pot, choose a large container (at least 50cm diameter) with good drainage.
  3. Positioning: Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. The grafting union (a slight bulge on the stem) should remain above the soil.
  4. Backfill: Backfill the hole with a mix of garden soil and compost, gently firming around the base to remove air pockets.
  5. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

Ideal Growing Conditions

  • Sunlight: Requires full sun for at least 6-8 hours daily to produce the best fruit.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter like compost to improve drainage.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells and when the tree is establishing. Avoid waterlogging.

Compatibility & Pollination

  • The 'Doyenné du Comice' is in Pollination Group 4. For optimal cropping, it needs a pollinator from Group 3, 4, or 5. Popular choices include 'Conference' or 'Williams Bon Chrétien'.
  • If you have limited space, check if nearby gardens have compatible pear trees.

Ongoing Care

  • Feeding: Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced fruit tree fertilizer.
  • Pruning: Prune in winter (when dormant) to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage fruit production. A summer prune can help manage vigor.
  • Pest & Disease: Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests or diseases and address them promptly using appropriate organic or chemical controls.
  • Support: Consider staking young trees to provide stability, especially in windy locations, until their root system is well-established.