Question
Oor old farm home has an ancient, half-live pear tree.  Before it completey succumbs, I would like to use its seeds to begin several offspring seedlings.  Ripe pears are now falling, and I am unsure how to harvest, treat, and plant and nurture the seeds contained in the fruit.

Sincerely,

Mike Meagher
Webberville, MICH.  

Answer
Hi Mike,
What a cool question!  I love this!  The answer is easy.  I wish I could have some of the seeds!  Take one or two of the ripe pears that have fallen off of the tree and strip them of their seeds.  Get a pot and put some good potting soil in it.  Take the seeds and press them into the potting soil and place another layer of soil on top.  Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy.  Place the pot in the fridge in a plastic baggie or better yet, out doors during the winter (watering once a week).  The seedlings will sprout in the spring.  Once the seedlings have their first set of true leaves, you may prick them out gently from the pot and pot up separately.  Get the new seedlings used to being outdoors by placing them in a shaded, protected area for about 10 days and then, you may plant them out in the garden.  I hope this helps.
Tom