http://www.durgan.org/URL/?LMJLH 7 September 2011 Ripening Pears
Pears are picked from the tree when not soft or basically unripe, determined when of sufficient size, which is subjective. The pears are then placed in a relatively sealed container or paper bag for about seven days with a fruit that produces ethylene gas which aids ripening. I use bananas. The ripe fruit is not grainy, not discolored, and is quite juicy. They are a pleasure to eat raw or can be processed for canning or making juice.