Asian Pears
Native to central and southern China. Chinese writings from 1000 - 2000 BC describe propagating this pear. This exotic fruit also thrives in our climate. Must be home-grown to appreciate the sweet,juicy flavor. Unlike most European pears, the fruit ripens on the tree. It sizes best on 1 to 3 year old wood spurs that are 1to 2 inches in diameter. Heavy thinning is also required for good sized fruit, to insure annual crops and to prevent limb breakage.
Sun: Full to 1/2 day
Years to fruit: 2
Life expectancy: 50 years
Height at maturity: 10-15 feet
Yield: 40-60 pounds
Soil: Rich, well-drained
Spacing: 15 feet
20th Century (Pyrus pyrifolia)
Also know as Nijiseiki, meaning "new century". The variety originated in Japan around 1900 and is responsible for the high popularity of asian pears in that country. The trees bear heavily with large fruit that is at its best whem allowed to ripen on the tree. This is the most commercially grown variety in this country and the most popular, as well as in Japan. The fruit bruises easily but will store well up to 6 months. The tree is naturally well shaped and easy to grow.
Fruit color: Yellow
Harvest time: Mid August
Min temp: --25 degrees
Pollenizers: Partially self-fertile, but will be more fruitful with another variety -- especi
Place Order (Available 2010)
Hosui (Pyrus pyrifolia)
Very high scoring in taste tests. Crisp like an apple. Fruit is large, juicy and sweet.
Fruit color: Brownish-orange russet
Harvest time: August
Min temp: --25 degrees
Pollenizers: Shinko, Chojuro, Bartlett, 20th Century
Shinseiki (Pyrus pyrifolia)
(Nijiseiki x Chojuro cross) Large fruit is crispy, sweet, flavorful and refreshingly juicy. One of the most productive and reliable pears. Keeps well into August. Easy to grow vigorous tree. Japanese variety.
Fruit color: Bright yellow
Harvest time: Late August
Min temp: --25 degrees
Pollenizers: Bartlett, Hosui, Nijiseiki
