Effect of Heading Back on Photosynthesis, Yield and Fruit Quality in Pear

A field study was conducted to examine the effect of low headed back of pear plants on photosynthesis, yield and fruit quality in pear trees cv. 'Patharnakh'. Plants were maintained at heights of 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 2.5 m and 3.0 m from ground level by removing top of the canopy during dormant season, while the control trees were not given any pruning treatment. The photosynthesis rate (Pn) and photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) were taken from April to July at fortnightly interval. Highest Pn of leaves trees was observed at morning time and it showed a positive relationship with PAR received. Both increased with advancement in season and recorded maximum in the 2nd fortnight of June, thereafter declined slightly. PAR and Pn increased with intensity of the pruning. Upper canopy of all the treatments recorded highest photosynthesis rate. Fruit yield per tree increased as the pruning height was raised and was recorded maximum in 2.5 m level of pruning. Fruit size enlarged linearly with the intensity of pruning. Pruning treatment improved soluble solids content of fruit.