It's been a long wait for a genetically dwarf pear trees, but the end is in sight. The new dwarfed Bosc pear was created at the Appalachian Fruit Research Station in Kearneysville, WV. However, it may take a few years before the trees are commercially available.
The genetically dwarf tree will be easier to grow than those grown on dwarfing rootstocks. For one thing, trellises or other support systems won't be needed. Canada's Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre is also studying pear rootstocks.
Meanwhile, you can buy ordinary dwarf pear trees. One on-line nursery even has a three-in-one (with Bartlett, Clapps Favorite, and D'Anjou) dwarf that is only six feet tall. Assuming the container is large enough, it could be grown as a pot plant.
Even self-pollinating pear trees produce bigger, better fruit crop if pollinators are available.
When choosing a variety, look for ones that are resistant to fire blight. Moonglow, Comice, Kieffer, and Seckel are examples.
Some varieties are better suited to specific parts of the U.S. Highland, which is very hardy, is an exception for it does well throughout the country. Those in the South should do well with Hood, a blight resistant one that does well even in Central Florida and in zones 6-8, Flordahome-a pear release from Florida for zones 8-10, and Baldwin-another blight resistant one for zones 8-10.
Pears are one of the fruits that will even tolerate black walnut.
Remember that pears should be harvested when they are still firm. Ordinary yellow pears should be picked when they are yellow-green. It may be harder to go by the color of reddish or brownish varieties. After picking, store them at 60-70 degrees F. so they can finish ripening.
A ripe pear is perfect for dessert or snacks. But they can be used in numerous dishes. One of my favorites is pear butter, which my sister-in-law and brothers make each fall. They use a recipe for apple butter, and simply substitute pears. The Pear Bureau Northwest has recipes for marmalade, quick bread, entrees, and more. I'd feel bad if I didn't also mention the California Pears site, since it also has recipes, nutrition facts, and other info.
According to California Agriculture magazine, perry, perry, which is fermented cider made from pears, has a future. Imperfect pears that aren't suitable for retail sale can be made into a delicious, all-natural drink.
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