Are these pests harmful to humans?

No, they are only interested in your tree. They do not bite or sting people.

Do I need to use harsh chemicals?

Not necessarily. Many pests can be managed with horticultural oils, soaps, and physical barriers like fruit bags.

What is eating my pear tree? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for sticky residue on the leaves.
Examine the fruit for tiny entry holes.
Check the bark for overwintering insects.

Likely causes

Pear Psylla
Most likely
How to tell: You will notice sticky honeydew on leaves and branches, which often leads to black sooty mold. These tiny insects suck sap and stunt growth.
What to do: Use a dormant oil spray in late winter to kill overwintering adults. During the season, use insecticidal soap to manage populations.
Codling Moth
Possible
How to tell: You see small holes in the fruit with brown frass or debris around the entrance. The larvae tunnel deep into the center of the pear.
What to do: Hang pheromone traps in the spring to monitor and disrupt mating. Bag the young fruit on the tree once they reach the size of a marble to physically block moths.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pear tree

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if you see significant fruit loss or if the tree shows signs of stunted, yellowing growth. Minor pest presence is common in home orchards.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around the tree clean and apply dormant oil sprays every winter to reduce pest cycles.

Pear tree: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pear tree and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these pests harmful to humans?: No, they are only interested in your tree. They do not bite or sting people.
Do I need to use harsh chemicals?: Not necessarily. Many pests can be managed with horticultural oils, soaps, and physical barriers like fruit bags.

Guides to these causes

Codling Moth

What is eating my pear tree?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your pear tree?