Pears

In season in SW Michigan

In season

Months from the MSU Extension seasonal availability guide. Weather shifts dates a little each year.

Key nutrients

%DV uses FDA Daily Values for adults and children 4+. Values are USDA lab averages scaled to the serving; your harvest may differ.

Wellness

A medium pear has about 101 calories, 5.5 g of fiber (20% DV) and 0.15 mg of copper (16% DV). That makes it a good source of copper. (USDA) Harvard's Nutrition Source says fiber, especially the insoluble kind, helps food move through the digestive system, and soluble fiber may help lower cholesterol. (Harvard) In long-term studies cited by Harvard's Nutrition Source, eating more berries, apples and pears was linked with weight loss. (Harvard)

Pick, store and use

• Pick

  Choose pears that aren't bruised or damaged. (MSU Extension)

• Store

  Let pears ripen on the counter, then move them to the fridge. (MSU Extension)

• Use

  Once peeled, keep pears in an ascorbic acid solution so they don't turn brown. (MSU Extension)

Where to get it nearby

• Bonamego FarmsLawrence · Van Buren Co. U-pick
• Johanson's Apple WorldBaroda · Berrien Co. U-pick
• McCartney FarmSodus · Berrien Co. U-pick
• Orchard Beach FarmQuincy · Branch Co. U-pick
• Overhiser OrchardsSouth Haven · Allegan Co. U-pick
• Dutch Farm MarketSouth Haven · Allegan Co.

See all 8 farms with pears →

Farms whose listing mentions pears. Check with the farm before you go.