An 'orchard grade' is a tree that may be somewhat shorter, slightly crooked, or a bit scratched, or for some other reason is not a perfect front lawn specimen. These trees will work just as well in an orchard as a first or number one would, since they still produce the very same fruit.

This Russian pear tree would likely feel right at home next to an igloo. At any rate, Bolshaya survived some brutal test winters outside Edmonton which decimated many of the so-called hardy varieties. Bolshaya translates to 'big pear', and the evidence here supports it. They are also squatty and broad, like an Asian pear and turn a pale yellow at ripening. The other factor which is more like an Asian than a regular Bartlett type is this-they will not ripen after picking. So wait until they are fully ripe and your experience should match the translated description on one Russian nursery site - 'The skin of the fruit is thin, almost invisible, the taste is excellent, sweet, harmonious, with a strong pear aroma, granulation is practically not felt.' So, if you are planting in the far north, Bolshaya should hit the right notes!

NEEDS A POLLENIZER | ZONE 2/3 | HARVEST : EARLY SEPT