It depends. If you have deer to contend with you may wish to let them grow taller before bending down. Otherwise, theres no such thing as too early. If the limbs are thin enough, you can get away with a little bit of physical manipulation. In the proper season (late winter is usually good) theyll often hold their position when bent down. Once the limbs get bigger you need to employ weights, spreaders, etc. and give it some time. Pears are quite stiff and tend to grow very vertical, so you may need spreaders regardless. Earlier interventions are usually better. Training is always better than pruning. Dont overdo it though. Remember that the weight of the crop will (eventually) lower the branches still further.
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A properly pruned pear tree does not need branch bending. The weight of the fruit alone will take care of it.
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Thanks Richard. Not sure if Iāll get any fruit this year. Unless Hosui is self pollinating like Iāve heard a few times but also heard it really wasnāt.
Figured it wouldnāt hurt to strengthen the limbs for next year also since Iāll be grafting heavy in spring. Iāll try and update a picture of the tree tomorrow.
Asian pears are so precious that bending limbs can be counterproductive. Ive had them snap limbs under the weight of the crop several times. Unlike Euro pears, they bear early and often!
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