How do I know when to pick my pears?

Question

I do not know what kind they are. The pears are rather large, dark green and many have a brown ring around the bottoms. I don't know if this kind will turn yellow or what. Can anyone help?

Answer 1

I have to disagree with Cat. Pears WILL ripen once they are picked, and in fact should be harvested when they are full-size but still firm. They should be left to ripen indoors at room temperatue for about 2 weeks.

Too many pears? Can some, or make pear jam. Yum! Don't forget family, friends and neighbors!

Answer 2

Thank you keepsondancing-- I also pick pears slightly hard-- because they will continue to ripen. I use them in pear honey-- (-- can't think what that's like except very, very good) a type of pear butter, and I dried some. The only other fruit that I think is as usable is apple--
Remember-- if you pick them in batches-- you won't be surrounded with pears and don't have the time to can or use them in other ways. Remember the peels and cores go in the compost!!
good luck

Answer 3

Almost all pears are best picked before they reach full ripeness. When they are full-sized and just beginning to color up but are still hard, that's the time. One of the big reasons to pick them before they fully ripen on the tree is that they can begin to develop some gritty, sand-like cells if left on the tree too long. If you pick them and let them ripen in a cool place, they will ripen to a smooth-textured, sweet and juicy perfection.

Answer 4

Pears are tricky. They will not continue to ripen once they're picked - and often there's a very narrow window between when they're ready, and when the wildlife gets at 'em. (Plus the fact that wildlife usually thinks underripe pears are just fine.)

That said, wait until they "look right", and don't feel rock hard. Then try one - if it's good, go get 'em!!