However, the susceptibility of European pears to fire blight excludes them from all but far west Texas. Oriental hybrids include such well-known varieties as Orient and Kieffer. This type is well adapted to much of Texas and accounts for most of the state's pears. Oriental hybrid pears include varieties that range from coarse and gritty to smooth, buttery textures. The more coarse textured varieties, such as Kieffer, are used primarily for home processing, including canning, preserves, pickled pears and baking.
Asian pears are relatively new to Texas and adaptation is still undetermined.
Site and Soil Requirements Climatically, pears are adapted to all areas of Texas north of a line from Corpus Christi to Laredo. More humid eastern portions of the state often have severe problems with fire blight. Gardeners there should plant only varieties with high blight tolerance. Good moisture drainage is an important soil requirement although pears are more tolerant of poorly drained soil than most other fruit trees. Sandy soils are best, but garden trees can be grown in clay or heavy loam soils in most parts of Texas.