- The best time to prune a Cleveland pear tree is in late winter or early spring before new leaves emerge. Pruning at this time lets the tree use all its energy to heal and reduces the chance of infection or disease.
- Remove dead, diseased or damaged branches as soon as you notice them, regardless of time of year. Although late winter is the best time to prune, leaving these branches on the tree results in the spread of disease or a safety hazard. Damaged branches can fall from the tree, causing injury or property damage.
- Cleveland pear trees have an upright growth habit making them vulnerable to winter damage and branch breakage. Thin them at least every 2 years so wind easily passes through them. Remove branches growing vertically or that sit less than 6 inches from another branch. Cut the branches back to 1/4 inch above the branch's base rather than flush with the tree, which leaves the tree susceptible to infection. Remove damaged branches by cutting the branch back to 1/4 inch above a healthy bud.
- Cleveland pear trees are sturdier than Bradford pears they are also short-lived and are easily damaged in high winds and winter storms. Plant them in a sunny, protected area next to a building to minimize wind damage. Inspect them often for signs of branch damage to avoid unsafe conditions.
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