Maturity and Storage Quality of `Concorde' Pears

`Concorde' pears from three plantings were harvested at various maturities, stored in regular (RA) or controlled atmosphere (CA) storage and their quality evaluated. Starting at a firmness of 57.0 N (12.81 lbf), `Concorde' pears can be harvested over a period of 14 days with no loss in quality and be good candidates for either RA or CA storage. A 14-day delay in harvest resulted in a one box size increase. Regardless of the time of harvest, `Concorde' pears can be stored in RA for periods not to exceed 90 days. RA storage beyond 90 days resulted in reduced appearance, poor pedicel condition, and enhanced internal breakdown. Early harvest should be considered when RA storage is expected to exceed 90 days; however astringency may develop. Regardless of harvest, `Concorde' pears can be stored for 180 days in CA with no quality loss, particularly if the CA composition is 1.5% oxygen (O 2 ) and 1.0% carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). Internal breakdown can be a problem in CA if the CO 2 exceeds 1.0%. Low O 2 (<1.5%) CA is not recommended for `Concorde' pears.