Bartlett Pear Tree

Bartlett pear tree is a European pear tree variety. According to Hedrick, Mr. Stair at Aldermaston, Berkshire in England discovered Bartlett pears as wildings. Later it was acquired by Mr. Williams, a nurseryman of Turham, Middlesex and distributed under the name of Williams Bon Chretien. It was brought to the United States under this name in 1797 or 1799 by James Carter for Thomas Brewer of Roxbury, Massachusetts. In 1817, Enoch Bartlett of Dorchester, Massachusetts acquired the Brewer property, and not knowing the variety’s true identity, propagated it under his own name. Hence, it became known in America as Bartlett. Bartlett pear trees are 70% of commercial pear production in North America and are also very popular in Europe.

Bartlett pear is very popular among growers because of its great adaptability to different climates, soils, and situations. Tree is medium in size, tall, pyriform, upright, and very productive. It blooms in mid-season. Trees are susceptible to fire blight.

Fruit is large, yellow, pink-blushed and has smooth, firm flesh suitable for fresh use and canning. Ripens in mid-season. Need to store fruit immediately at 1° C (30° F) until a week before use. Rapid removal of field heat and prompt cooling of harvested pears help with long-term storage. The maximum storage period for Bartlett at -1° C is about 2½-3 months. Bartlett is a good pollinizer for most other pears, but is not compatible with Seckel and AC Harrow Crisp. Grows well in hardiness zones 5-8.

Hardiness zone: 5-8
Hill Hours: 800
Bloom time: mid-season