I recently ate what was called an Asian Apple Pear. Does anyone know whether these trees can be sucessfully grown in Prescott, AZ? The elevation is about 5000 feet with 4 mild seasons. Thanks
I don't think it would be a problem. China and Japan are the world's leading producers, and that suggests they grow well in a variety of climates. From what I've read on the subject, the only danger you might have in Arizona are cold winter nights - they need to be kept as frost-free as possible. At that elevation, I suspect you may have to plant it in a sheltered spot. Here are some helpful sites: Asian pear from Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service Nashi from Fruttilandia (doesn't seem to be a commercial site) Asian pears from the Farms of Amador project, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
I don't think you will have a problem about being to cold, I have two asian pear trees and I live in Idaho. A colder part of Idaho to boot. They do very well and the fruit is excellant. Drying the fruit makes a very good snack of which is very tasty...The two I have are dwarf trees and are not that big compared to some of my other dwarf trees I have...