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Pear harvest/pruning #772673

Asked September 22, 2021, 11:58 AM EDT

I have pear trees that are producing for the second year. Unfortunately I don’t know what type they are. Fruit is small and hard. A few small pears have fallen to the ground (still hard). I found one bugs were eating was soft near the stem. I sliced it open and 1/2 was bruised/mushy. Are these ‘ready’ yet when still firm? How can I tell if these are for canning versus eating from the tree? Do I have to refrigerate all of these before I try to can them (I’m new at that too!) or they ripen?Also, when should I prune low branches (the deer have already nibbled the leaves). Maybe the OSU has a PDF on pears somewhere! All of these photos show fruit from the same tree. I appreciate your help!

Shelby County Ohio

Expert Response

Helen

Congratulations on getting fruit! 

Fruit dropping is not always indicative of when they are ready to pick.  But knowing when to harvest pears can be tricky.

If you wait for pears to totally ripen on the tree, they often can be over-ripe and not store well.  Instead, grasp the pears and pull upwards with a slight twist.  If they pull off easily, harvest them.  Store the pears in a cold place. Pull individuals out and store at room temperature (can take 3-5 days) to allow to ripen. 

Other signs when pears are ready to harvest: (1) dark skin color turns lighter green/yellowish green; skin feels waxy and smooth.

Remember to handle pears carefully. They damage easily and damaged pears don't store well.

Damaged fruit that is not ripe can be cut up and made into a lovely pear jelly; even unripe fruit. 

Storage in a refrigerator is not ideal. I think you will find the following reference helpful: Picking and Storing Apples and Pears (oregonstate.edu)


Here are some resources about pruning pears:

Pruning Mature Apples and Pears, HYG-1150-93.pdf

Pruning & Training Apple & Pear Trees | Home & Garden Information Center (clemson.edu)


All the best, Roxanne

An Ask Extension Expert Replied September 22, 2021, 12:59 PM EDT

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