Selected Pyrus genotypes as pollenizers for Pyrus communis cultivars

Probably the most important factors affecting the financial outcome of commercial fruit growing is the success of pollination and fertilization, which in turn are dependent on weather conditions, activity of pollinators and compatibility and flowering overlap of the pollinizers. Before introducing pollinizer accessions, it is obviously important to know the compatibility and flowering characteristics of the genotypes as well as tree characteristics like vigour, tree habit and pest and disease susceptibility. In order to find out these attributes, 25 accessions belonging to eight Pyrus species have been evaluated. Further, eight promising genotypes were tested in more detail for pollen production and germination, pollen compatibility with Pyrus communis cultivar 'Conference' and flowering phenology. As a result, four recommendable ornamental Pyrus accessions, both early and late flowering were found. To ensure maximal overlap of the flowering period of the main cultivar every year, a mix of 2 or 3 different pollinizers will be advised for commercial orchards