Many fruits will ripen on the vine, but pears actually ripen easier after they have been picked. Pears that are left to ripen on the tree usually are not fit for consumption. This is because the ripening process begins in the middle of the fruit. By the time the outer layers are properly ripened, the middle section is already turning to mush. By picking the fruit and using certain strategies to manage the ripening process, it is possible to control the rate of ripening so that the entire fruit is the right texture and taste.
More facts about how to ripen pears:
- Picking the pears while they are still slightly immature is important. With most types of pears, the fruit is ready for picking when the stem snaps easily as the fruit is tilted to a horizontal position. Bosc pears are an exception, because the fruit generally requires more effort to snap the stem.
- One common approach to ripening pears uniformly is placing them in a paper bag, sealing the bag, then setting it in a cool, dark place. Some experts recommend putting a banana or two in the bag as well, to expedite the ripening.
- A similar method calls for placing the pears in a plastic container with an airtight lid. The container is then placed in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. Typically, the ripening process will take 24 to 48 hours.
By Malcolm Tatum
, Writer
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.