The main pear
variety grown in the UK is Conference, however not all fruit is
harvested because around 6% are misshapen and unmarketable. This study
aimed to identify the main pollinating
insects of pear and investigate the contribution they make to pear
quality. We also investigated cross pollinating Conference with other
varieties to improve pear shape. A
wide range of insects, more than 30 species, visited
pear flowers including honeybees, bumblebees, solitary bees and
hoverflies resulting in 10% higher fruit set. Cross pollination of
Conference with
the variety Concorde also produced better quality fruits. We discuss
how pollination of Conference pears could be managed to improve yield of
marketable fruit and
hence reduce waste.
Read the scientific publication in JPE.
