Description
Pyrus communis ‘Bartlett’
Bartlett is the classic European pear and one of the most widely grown varieties for both fresh eating and preserving. The large fruits ripen to a beautiful golden yellow, occasionally with a red blush, and have incredibly smooth, juicy flesh with an amazing flavor when properly ripe. Long valued as the standard pear for eating and canning, Bartlett is also excellent for drying, baking, making brandy and eating fresh. The trees are vigorous and productive, but are not the most disease resistant of available varieties. However they are one of the only European Pears that are partially self-fertile, producing crops in late summer with only one tree. Fruit ripens firm on the tree, pick green as soon as pears start to fall. Develops its best flavor 2 weeks after harvest as it softens and changes color.
USDA Zone: 4–8
Pollination: Considered self-fertile but will produce larger yields with a second European pear or compatible Asian pear variety nearby.
Time to productivity: 2–3 years after planting.
Ripening time: Late August to early September.
Storage length: Stores up to 1.5 months under refrigeration and proper conditions.