[Casey76]

My pear tree is bearing properly this year for the first time.  I think it is a Williams, but not sure (no label on tree, and it was here when I bought the house).

How do I know when they are ready for picking?

Thanks

[sunshineband]

Ready for picking is different to being ready to eat, where pears are concerned.

Best to pick them when ypu can twist them off with a gentle turn, but they will probably be a bit hard for eating still.

If you wait until they are perfectly ripe, you run the risk of them all falling to the ground one day 

[Kleftiwallah]

Same procedure as for a Custard Apple !     Cheers,   Tony.

[Swing Swang]

My first usually get picked on August Bank Holiday Monday

[Trillium]

I agree with Sunny. It's difficult to know exactly when to pick them, but its better if they're just a touch unripe rather than too ripe. The latter require immediately attention, whereas the former can have a few days respite while they ripen just enough and not fall off the tree and bruise on the ground.

Just keep checking them daily as they're like cooking shallots - will burn quickly soon as you look away.

[lancashiregardeninggal]

Agreed - pick a little early whilst still quite firm as they will ripen happily off the tree.

[sunshineband]

Same procedure as for a Custard Apple !     Cheers,   Tony.

and that is .....