Differences between Pear Trees and Apple Trees
In orchard planting and courtyard greening, pear trees and apple trees are often confused due to their similarities. By observing the physiological characteristics of the trees, we can accurately grasp the differential properties of the two fruit trees, which has practical guiding significance for horticultural maintenance and fruit tree cultivation.
Comparison of Tree Morphological Characteristics
Differences in Bark and Branches
Pear tree bark appears deep grayish-brown and gradually carbonizes to black with the increase of tree age, forming a natural protective layer of unique pigment deposition. The branching angle is generally less than 45 degrees, the wood is brittle and easy to break, and the annual growth of new branches is about 15-25 centimeters.
Apple tree bark is light grayish-brown with longitudinal peeling features on the surface, feeling like layered paper when touched. The angle between the main branches and the trunk can reach 60-70 degrees, the branches are flexible, and the diameter of three-year-old branches can reach 3-5 centimeters.
Comparison of Root Color
The junction of pear tree roots and stems appears black, which is related to the absorption and transformation of iron elements in the soil. The root collar of apple trees is reddish-brown and will deepen to ochre when exposed to the air.
Key Points for Identifying Leaf Morphology
Differences between Pear Trees and Apple Trees
Pear leaves have a thick leathery layer with obvious wax on the surface and a gentle arc on the serrated edges. The young leaves are covered with white silk hairs on both sides, and only the veins on the back of mature leaves retain the down.
Apple leaves feel rough and the main veins are sunken, forming distinct grooves, with sharp sawtooth edges like awns. New leaves are densely covered with grayish-white down and still retain short pubescence after fully expanding.
Analysis of Flower and Fruit Development Cycle
Comparison of Flowering Characteristics
Pear trees bloom in early spring with corymbs of 5-7 flowers each, petals pure white as jade, and anthers purplish-red. The full bloom period is 10-15 days earlier than that of apple trees, with typical cross-pollination characteristics.
Apple flowers have a light pink gradient, with the base of the petals having a rosy red blush, and the pistil stigma is significantly higher than the stamens. The inflorescence is located at the top of short fruit branches, with each cluster densely opening 3-5 flowers.
Fruit Maturation Cycle
Pear trees start to bear fruit in the third year after planting, and most varieties require 600-800 hours of chilling. Apple trees need 5 years of cultivation to enter the full fruiting period, with an annual effective accumulated temperature requirement of over 2500°C.
Mastering these identification points can not only accurately distinguish tree species but also provide a basis for later management measures such as pruning and fertilizing. It is recommended to combine field observations with tactile and visual comparisons to gradually establish a systematic ability to identify tree species.