Moonglow Pears

Overview

Moonglow pears are a relatively new variety that has quickly gained popularity due to their sweet flavor and smooth texture. Known for their creamy, juicy flesh and slightly tangy-sweet flavor, Moonglow pears are perfect for fresh eating, baking, canning, and preserving. Their smooth skin and elegant shape make them an attractive addition to any orchard, and their mild yet complex flavor profile makes them a versatile pear variety suitable for a range of culinary uses.

History and Origin

Moonglow pears were developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and introduced in the 1980s. They are a cross between two well-known pear varieties: the “Seckel” and “D’Anjou.” The goal of this hybridization was to create a pear that combined the best characteristics of its parent varieties—especially the sweetness and smooth texture of Seckel pears with the firm texture and storage capability of D’Anjou pears. The result was a highly adaptable, flavorful pear variety.

Key Characteristics

1. Flavor: Moonglow pears have a distinctive sweet flavor, characterized by a mild, juicy sweetness and a subtle tanginess. The flesh is very smooth, with a creamy texture that offers a satisfying eating experience. The flavor is not overly strong or overpowering, making Moonglow pears a great choice for those who prefer a more delicate pear taste.
2. Appearance: Moonglow pears have a smooth, thin skin that is typically pale yellow when ripe. The skin may sometimes develop a light blush of red or orange, especially on the side that faces the sun. These pears are medium to large in size, with a classic pear shape—wider at the base and tapering slightly toward the stem. The skin has a glossy appearance, adding to the fruit’s visual appeal.
3. Size and Shape: Moonglow pears are generally medium to large in size, averaging 3 to 3.5 inches in diameter. They have a smooth, rounded shape with a slight taper toward the stem, making them easy to handle and slice. The pears have a clean, polished look that makes them attractive both for home consumption and commercial sale.
4. Skin and Flesh: The skin of Moonglow pears is thin yet smooth, making it easy to eat. The flesh is creamy white to pale yellow and very tender. When fully ripe, the flesh has a melting, buttery texture that adds to its juiciness. The smoothness of the flesh is one of the key characteristics that distinguishes Moonglow pears from other varieties.
5. Harvest Time: Moonglow pears are typically harvested in September. These pears are usually picked when still firm and allowed to ripen off the tree. Their excellent storage and handling qualities make them a great pear variety for both fresh consumption and preservation. After picking, they should be allowed to ripen off the tree, at room temperature, for 2-3 days. When ripe, the skin will change from green to a golden yellow color, and the flesh will soften, becoming juicy and tender. Moonglow pears can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one to two weeks, or they can be canned or preserved for longer storage.

Uses