- Appearance: Kieffer Pears are large, hard pears with a greenish-yellow color and a red blush. The flesh is coarse, crisp, and juicy. The tree grows to 15-20 feet in height and 12-15 feet in width.
- Flowers and Fruit: Features white blooms and ripens in mid-fall. The pears are ideal for cooking and winter storage, with a harvest period from July to early August.
- Hardiness: Requires 350 chill hours and is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8. The tree can self-pollinate or be pollinated by the Orient Pear.
- Planting and Care: Needs full sun (6-8 hours daily) and well-drained soil. Regular watering is essential; the tree is not drought tolerant. Prune in late winter to ensure proper air and light circulation.
- Pollination and Maintenance: While Kieffer Pears can self-pollinate, using the Orient Pear as a pollinator can enhance fruit yield. Watch for susceptibility to blight and manage accordingly.
The Kieffer Pear tree is a robust choice for gardeners looking to enjoy large, hard pears that are perfect for cooking and winter storage. These pears are greenish-yellow with a red blush, offering a coarse, crisp texture and juicy flavor. They ripen in mid-fall and are ideal for preserving or using in a variety of recipes. Reaching a mature height of 15-20 feet and a width of 12-15 feet, the Kieffer Pear tree requires 350 chill hours and can either self-pollinate or be paired with an Orient Pear for optimal fruiting. Although the tree is susceptible to blight, it thrives in full sun with 6-8 hours of sunlight and needs consistent watering. Plant in well-drained soil to ensure healthy growth. Prune in late winter to improve air and light circulation within the tree. White blooms in spring precede the harvest of your Kieffer pears from July to early August.
