What is a Chojuro Asian Pear?
The Chojuro Asian pear, also known as Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Chojuro’, is a popular cultivar that originated in Japan in the late 1800s. It is known for its unique russetted orange-brown skin and crisp, juicy white flesh. The fruit is about 3 inches (8 cm) or more in diameter and has a lengthy storage life of about 5 months when refrigerated.
The Chojuro Asian pear tree has large, waxy, dark green foliage that turns a gorgeous red/orange in the fall. At maturity, the tree will reach 10-12 feet (3-4 m) in height. It blooms in early April and the fruit ripens in late August to early September. The tree will begin bearing fruit 1-2 years after planting.
How to Grow Chojuro Asian Pears
Chojuro Asian pears can be grown in USDA zones 5-8. They are hardy to -25 F (-32 C) and need another pollinator for cross-pollination to occur. You can plant either two Asian pear varieties or one Asian pear and an early European pear such as Ubileen or Rescue.
Select a planting site that is in full sun, with loamy, well-draining soil and a pH level of 6.0-7.0. Plant the tree so that the rootstock is 2 inches (5 cm) above the soil line.
Chojuro Pear Tree Care
Water the pear tree with 1-2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of water per week, depending on weather conditions. Prune the pear tree annually to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage fruit production. To get the tree to produce the largest pears, you can thin the fruit.
Fertilize the pear tree just after new leaves emerge in the later winter or early spring. Use an organic plant food or a non-organic fertilizer like 10-10-10. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers.
Growing Chojuro Asian Pears in USDA Zones 5-8
Chojuro Asian pears can be grown in USDA zones 5-8, which means they can tolerate temperatures as low as -25 F (-32 C). However, it is important to note that young trees may need to be protected from the cold during the first few winters.
Planting Chojuro Asian Pears in Loamy, Well-Draining Soil
Chojuro Asian pears prefer loamy, well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0-7.0. Loamy soil is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, and it provides good drainage and aeration for the roots. If your soil is not loamy, you can amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve its drainage and fertility.
Fertilizing Chojuro Asian Pear Trees
Fertilize Chojuro Asian pear trees just after new leaves emerge in the later winter or early spring. Use an organic plant food or a non-organic fertilizer like 10-10-10. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as these can promote excessive vegetative growth and reduce fruit production.
Pruning Chojuro Asian Pear Trees
Prune Chojuro Asian pear trees annually to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage fruit production. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before the tree begins to bud.
Watering Chojuro Asian Pear Trees
Water Chojuro Asian pear trees with 1-2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of water per week, depending on weather conditions. Water the trees deeply, so that the water reaches the roots. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
