Pears

Pears are one of the oldest cultivated fruits. They were documented in China in 5000 BC. Homer referred to pears in his Odyssey. Historical documents give us the growing and grafting techniques of Roman farmers. Because of their versatility and long storage life, they were eaten on the long trade routes. In 17th Century Europe, there was a large growth in pear cultivation. Early colonists brought them to the U.S. and in the 1800's the seeds were carried west to Oregon and Washington thriving in these climates. The "king of fruits" according to the French are easy to grow in your yard.