The Asian pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) must be harvested when fully ripe, unlike European pear varieties that soften after picking. These fruits often look mature long before they develop their characteristic crispness and sweetness, leading to premature harvest based on size alone. Since Asian pears will not significantly improve their flavor or texture once removed from the tree, timing the harvest correctly is the only way to ensure a quality eating experience.
Seasonal Timing and Common Varieties
The general harvest window for Asian pears typically runs from late August through October, varying considerably depending on the specific variety and local climate. Growers in warmer regions might begin picking as early as mid-July with some early-season types. Planting different varieties that ripen sequentially can extend the season, providing a continuous supply of fruit for several weeks.
Popular varieties are categorized by their ripening period. Early-season pears, such as ‘Shinseiki’ and ‘Kosui’, are often ready in August. Mid-season varieties like ‘Hosui’ and ’20th Century’ usually mature from late August into September. Later-season fruit, including ‘Shinko’ or ‘Korean Giant,’ can extend the harvest into October or even November in mild climates.
Key Indicators of Ripeness
The most reliable sign of readiness is a subtle change in the background skin color. Smooth, green-skinned varieties, like ’20th Century,’ shift to a pale yellow-green or golden hue. Russet-skinned varieties, such as ‘Chojuro’ and ‘Kosui,’ develop a more pronounced bronze or golden-brown color.
Another indicator is the ease of detachment from the branch, often called the “lift and turn” test. A ripe Asian pear will separate easily from the spur with a gentle upward lift and slight twist. If the fruit resists removal and requires a firm tug, it is not yet ready.
Since the fruit is ready-to-eat when picked, the internal sugar content must be high. Commercial growers measure soluble solids (Brix), but for the home grower, the most practical method is to taste a single pear from the tree. If the sample is crisp, juicy, and sweet, the harvest has arrived.
Harvesting Technique and Immediate Storage
The correct harvesting technique is to lift the fruit, keeping the stem attached to the pear, which helps prevent stem-end decay during storage. The skin is thin and highly susceptible to bruising and friction marks, so fruit must be handled with extreme care during picking. Place the fruit gently into a padded container, ensuring they do not rub against each other.
Asian pears are non-climacteric, meaning their quality will not improve off the tree, underscoring the need for peak ripeness harvest. Immediately after picking, the fruit should be moved to a cool, high-humidity environment.
For short-term holding, they can be stored for about a week at room temperature. For longer periods, refrigeration is necessary. Storing Asian pears near 32°F (0°C) with high humidity, often achieved with perforated plastic bags, allows them to maintain their crisp texture for several weeks to months, depending on the variety.