We planted the first of our organic pear trees on our farm in Alachua County, FL over 15 years ago. Today, we have developed our orchard to bring you the best of summer pears right here in Florida.
We’d like to introduce you to Hood, Carnes, Baldwin, and Pineapple! The first three varieties are hybrids between Asian and European pears. The final variety, our pineapple pear, is a true Asian heirloom that may be thousands of years old!
Pears will store well for a few weeks to a month. As they ripen, they make great juice and are also perfect for our Pear Cider Vinegar!
Hood pears have the best skin of our varieties. This one is special because it’s an early summer pear, and the tree doesn’t produce as much as the others. If you get to try them, consider yourself one of the lucky ones!
Carnes are the 2nd variety to ripen. They make great juice with their refreshing flavor. You can let them ripen until the skin is yellow, but peeling the skin is also recommended!
Baldwins are a perfect hybrid between the crispy Asian pears and the silky European pears. If you let them ripen on your counter they will develop more flavor and a pleasant, silky texture.
Pineapple pears (a.k.a Sand pears) are a well-known cannery fruit for preserves and compotes. They were brought to North Florida hundreds of years ago, originating from China. Because they hang on the tree the longest, they’re one of our most flavorful pears. Try them on a salad fresh or cooked into a galette!
Syntropic Agriculture & Pear Trees
Pears produce tannin (which gives that dry feeling in your mouth!) in their skin that deters pests. It’s best to wait for the tannins to ripen into sugars – when the skin becomes more yellow or bronze. Thanks to the natural tannins and vigorous growth habit, along with spiders and birds that help, we never have to spray or apply any synthetic pest control onto our trees. On our regenerative farm, you’ll see a syntropic agriculture system around our pear orchard. This year they’re growing right next to Seminole pumpkins, native mint, and some cover crops.
Recipes
Pears are so versatile. Have them crispy, wait till they’re ripe, pickle them, chop them up for a salad, bake them, juice them, puree them, and so much more!
Pears and cheese go beautifully together. Here’s a Pear and Cheese Cacio e Pepe Ravioli recipe that will impress.
Here’s an easy Cinnamon Baked Pears with Walnuts recipe for a luxurious tasting dessert that feels indulgent, but isn’t at all. Pears become ultra rich when heated, it breaks down their complex cell walls and concentrate their natural sugars into a caramelization and reduction. You’ll see when you try it – the flavors transform from their mild sweetness to a rich, buttery, and aromatic experience.
Chinese medicinal recipes include holistic ingredients that support the body. Here is a Chinese Pear Dessert Soup that aids in respiratory health.
Check out our video on our pear trees here!
Let us know if you enjoy our Florida-grown organic pears on our social media! Tell us what you think, we’d love to hear your feedback. Tag us in your stories if you’d like and we can highlight your creation.
Instagram @frogsongcsa
