Key points for pear tree management in August

For pear orchard managers, August is not only the harvest season, but also a critical period for disease and pest control and fertilizer and water management. Don't neglect daily management because of harvesting. Let’s learn some key points about pear tree management in August.

1. Pinching operation

For pear trees with excessive vegetative growth and medium and long branches that have not stopped growing, light pinching should be performed to promote the differentiation of lateral buds and the formation of flower buds. Pinching should be completed in early to mid-July or early August.

2. Pest and disease control

August is the peak period for diseases such as black spot and ring rot. Use 1500 times of tebuconazole or 1000 times of mancozeb for prevention and control. Alternating use will have better results.

3. Soil Moisture Management

In August, there may be high temperatures and drought, so the roots of the pear trees need to be covered with soil to retain moisture, lower the ground temperature, and protect the roots and leaves. Covering materials can be adapted to local conditions, such as weeds or straw; if materials are insufficient, cover the tree canopy with grass first. During the high temperature and drought period, soil moisture has a significant impact on the yield and quality of the fruit during the expansion period. Irrigation should be done frequently, especially in the evening, to reduce the field temperature. Irrigation should be stopped about 30 days before harvest to improve fruit quality and sugar content.

4. Topdressing strategy

In early August, fruit enlargement fertilizer is applied to mid- and late-maturing pear trees, using a compound fertilizer with a nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium ratio of 15:15:15. Adjust the amount of fertilizer according to the variety and age of the tree. For varieties such as "Qingxiang" and "Xueqing", the amount can be increased appropriately. In mid-August, apply potassium sulfate fertilizer to varieties at different maturity stages, and apply nitrogen fertilizer after harvest to restore tree vigor.

5. Fruit picking

According to the characteristics of the variety, pick at the right time to avoid early picking, and do it in batches, first the large fruits on the top, the outer fruits, then the middle fruits, and finally the center fruits. During the picking process, be careful to pick and place gently to avoid damaging the fruit. The picked fruit should be immediately placed in a cool place to avoid direct sunlight.

Through these meticulous management measures, we can not only ensure a bumper harvest of pears in August, but also lay a good foundation for the growth and fruiting of pear trees in the coming year.