How long after harvest do pears remain usable?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The usability windows of Pears change widely based on the variety of pear and the storage technique used. Based on my orchard experience, European pears can last many months after harvest when stored properly. In contrast, Asian pears typically last only a few weeks when harvested. Proper technique would help you truly extend your enjoyment of your harvest for a very long time. Temperature control and humidity management are key factors.
Conditioned Europeans
- 3-5 days at 32-35°F after ripening
- Bartletts soften fastest
- Bosc maintains texture longest
Asian Varieties
- 1-2 weeks refrigerated at 32-35°F
- Hosui lasts longer than Shinseiki
- Crispness declines after day 10
Unripe Europeans
- 2-4 months at 29-31°F unwashed
- Check monthly for decay spots
- Condition after removal from storage
The conditioning status has a significant impact on the shelf life of European pears. I cool Bartlett pears as soon as they yield to gentle palm pressure near the stem. Unripe European pears can be stored at just below freezing temperatures and high relative humidity. Handle the fruit gently to minimize internal bruising, which can lead to rapid decay.
Freezing techniques are great for texture preservation. I typically blanch slices in lemon water before freezing on trays. This will prevent browning and retain texture. After 10 months in the freezer, frozen pear slices work great for baking! Dehydration builds chewy treats, while canning provides a preserved product that is ready to eat.
Storage monitoring practices help eliminate waste. I inspect my refrigerated pears weekly for soft spots (there may be one or two, but if there are many, you need to remove the bad pears immediately). Mark down the conditioning dates on the containers. These practices allow you to enjoy pears at their best throughout the entire storage period.
Read the full article: When to Harvest Pears: Complete Guide
