However, the susceptibility of European pears to fire blight limits their use. Oriental hybrids include such well-known varieties as 'Orient' and 'Kieffer'. This type is well adapted to much of Arkansas and accounts for most of the state's pears. Oriental hybrid pears produce russeted fruit that is firm to hard and has a high number of grit cells. These varieties are popular for preserves, pickling or in jams, but most varieties are also satisfactory for fresh use if properly ripened.
Asian pears are relatively new to Arkansas.
This crop seems to do well in northern Arkansas. The southern extent of their adaptation in the state has not been determined. Back To Top Site and Soil Requirements Climatically, pears are adapted to all areas of Arkansas. Pears often have severe problems with fire blight, and gardeners should only plant varieties with high blight tolerance. It is possible to lessen the effects of fire blight with judicious sprays, but this is difficult for homeowners to do and is not encouraged.