When are Pears Ready to Pick?

Pears are often referred to as the "gift of the gods." They are juicy and sweet. Pears are hypoallergenic and are often the first fruit introduced to an infant. Besides being nutritious, pears are versatile and can be used in many desserts. Pears are related to the apple and quince. The most common varieties in the United States are Bosc, Bartlett, Anjou and Comice. To enjoy a sweet, juicy pear, you must learn to pick them at the right time, and then ripen them just enough to keep them firm, yet juicy.

History

The pear is one of the oldest cultivated fruits. Its history dates to at least 5000 B.C. when Feng Li, a Chinese diplomat, experimented in growing and grafting pears. Romans grew pears and documented their growth process and grafting techniques. Immigrants introduced pears to America as they settled along the East Coast.

Geography

When pears were introduced to the East Coast, they thrived until blight destroyed many of the crops. However, immigrants traveling west took pears with them to the Oregon and Washington area. The Northwest is the only area in the United States that is climatically and geographically suited for pear growth. Today, Oregon is the top producing pear state, and Washington is second.

Benefits

Pears are high in fiber. A medium-sized pear has 6 grams of fiber. Fiber is beneficial to the body because it promotes regularity and can lower high cholesterol levels. Fiber also prevents cancer-causing chemicals from damaging the colon cells. Pears are also high in vitamin C, which provides the body with antioxidants, nutrients that protect cells. Pears also contain copper, which protects cell membranes.

Time Frame

Picking the pear at the right time and then eating the pear at the right time can be tricky. If pears are left on a tree until they are fully ripened, they will be mushy in the middle because they ripen from the inside out. The best time to pick a pear is when it is close to being ripe. By bending the pear horizontally, you can tell if it's ready to pick. If it pulls off the tree easily, it's ready. This does not work for Bosc pears, however.
When you ripen your pears, consider putting them in a paper bag with a ripe banana or an apple. This will speed up the ripening process. You can also leave the pears on the kitchen counter. Pears are ready to eat when a gentle push below the stem yields to the pressure.

Considerations

If you have many pears, they can be stored in ventilated wooden or cardboard boxes. The ideal temperature for storing pears is 30 to 32 degrees. An unheated garage, shed, or a basement may work if the temperature does not fall below 30 degrees or go above 45 degrees.

Resources

• When to Pick Pears