When Are Pears in Season? A Guide to Peak Freshness Around the World
Juicy, subtly sweet, and packed with fibre, pears are one of the world’s most beloved fruits. Whether you enjoy them fresh, poached, or in salads and desserts, knowing when pears are in season helps you get the best flavour, texture, and nutritional value.
But pear seasonality varies depending on variety and region. So, when exactly are pears in season? Let’s break it down.
📅 Global Pear Season Overview
Pears are grown on almost every continent, with peak seasons varying based on climate and variety. In general:
-
Northern Hemisphere (Europe, North America, parts of Africa):
Main season: August to October
Some early varieties are available as early as July, and storage or late-season types can last until March. -
Southern Hemisphere (South Africa, Chile, Argentina):
Main season: January to April
These pears often fill the supply gap during the Northern Hemisphere’s off-season, particularly in export markets.
🍐 Popular Pear Varieties & Their Seasons
Different types of pears ripen at different times of the year. Here are some common varieties and their typical seasons:
1. Bartlett Pears
- Season: August to October (Northern Hemisphere)
- Sweet, juicy, and great for eating fresh or canning.
2. Bosc Pears
- Season: September to November
- Crisp texture, holds up well when baked or poached.
3. Anjou Pears (Green & Red)
- Season: October to April
- Known for long storage life and availability into spring.
4. Comice Pears
- Season: September to December
- Very sweet and soft — ideal for cheeseboards or desserts.
5. Forelle & Seckel Pears
- Season: Mid-autumn
- Smaller varieties, often used for snacking or garnishes.
🌍 Pear Seasons by Region
Here’s a quick look at when pears are in season in some major pear-producing and consuming regions:
Africa (e.g., South Africa, Morocco, Egypt):
- Peak season: January to April
- Ideal for export to Europe and Asia during Northern Hemisphere’s off-season.
Europe (France, Italy, Netherlands):
- Peak season: August to October
- Many traditional varieties, including Conference pears.
United States:
- Peak season: August to December
- Pacific Northwest is a major growing area for Bartlett, Anjou, and Bosc.
South America (Chile, Argentina):
- Peak season: February to April
- Supplies global markets during Northern Hemisphere winter.
🛒 When to Buy Pears for Peak Quality
To enjoy pears at their best:
- Buy during local harvest season for maximum freshness.
- Look for firm pears that yield slightly to pressure near the stem.
- Pears ripen off the tree, so they may need a few days at room temperature after purchase.
🍐 Pears in Africa: Growing Opportunity
Countries like South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya are gaining attention in the global pear market, both for local consumption and exports. Thanks to diverse climates, Africa can support both summer and winter pear varieties, making it a strategic player in year-round supply.
At Wigmore Trading, we support the sourcing, export, and wholesale distribution of fresh seasonal fruits, including pears from trusted African and international growers.
📦 Looking to Source Fresh Pears?
Whether you’re a retailer, wholesaler, or food processor, knowing when pears are in season helps you plan your supply chain more efficiently.
👉 Contact Wigmore Trading to explore seasonal pear availability, export opportunities, and bulk orders tailored to your market needs.
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