Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Pears
Nutritional Composition
- Dietary Fiber: About 6g per medium pear, excellent for digestion and gut health.
- Vitamin C: Provides 12% of daily value, supports immune function.
- Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
- Antioxidants: Rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins (especially in red pears).
- Water Content: About 84% water, naturally hydrating.
Health Benefits
- 🍐 High fiber content promotes digestive health and regularity.
- 🍐 Low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- 🍐 Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce disease risk.
- 🍐 May support heart health by lowering cholesterol.
- 🍐 Hydrating properties support skin health.
Tip: Eat pears with the skin for maximum fiber and nutrients. Best consumed when slightly soft at the stem.
Pear Tree Growing Guide
1
Variety Selection
- Choose varieties suited to your climate: Bartlett (temperate), Asian pears (warmer), or Comice (cooler).
- Most pears need cross-pollination - plant at least two compatible varieties.
2
Site Preparation
- Full sun location (6+ hours daily) with well-draining soil.
- Ideal soil pH 6.0-7.0. Amend with compost before planting.
3
Planting
- Plant bare-root trees in late winter/early spring.
- Space standard trees 20-25 feet apart, dwarf varieties 12-15 feet.
- Plant at same depth as nursery, with graft union above soil.
4
Care & Maintenance
- Water deeply weekly during first year, then during dry spells.
- Prune annually in late winter to maintain shape and airflow.
- Fertilize in early spring with balanced fruit tree fertilizer.
5
Harvesting & Storage
- Harvest when fruit separates easily when lifted (usually late summer-fall).
- European pears ripen best off the tree at room temperature.
- Store ripe pears in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Note: Pear trees typically bear fruit in 3-5 years. Asian pears may fruit earlier (2-3 years).
Pear planting video
Learn how to plant and care for pear trees in your backyard
Delicious Pear Recipes
From sweet desserts to savory dishes - explore various ways to enjoy pears!
Pear Recipe Video Tutorials
Follow along with these videos to create delicious pear dishes and drinks.