Pear Williams

Pear Williams

A true British classic, the Pear Williams — also known as Williams' Bon Chrétien — is one of the finest dessert pears you can grow. Celebrated for its exceptional sweetness, juicy flesh and wonderful musky fragrance, it's a firm favourite with gardeners and fruit lovers alike. If you've ever enjoyed a tinned pear, chances are it was a Williams!

About the Fruit

Williams pears are medium to large in size with a classic pear shape, smooth yellow-green skin that flushes golden when ripe, and incredibly tender, melting flesh. The flavour is rich, sweet and aromatic — outstanding eaten fresh straight from the tree at the peak of ripeness in late summer.

Growing Information

• Partially self-fertile — crops well alone but yields improve significantly with a compatible pollinator such as Conference or Beth nearby
• One of the earliest pear varieties to ripen — harvest from late August to September
• Thrives in a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained, fertile soil
• Suitable for training as a bush, half-standard or espalier against a warm wall
• Pick when still firm and allow to ripen indoors for the best flavour
• RHS Award of Garden Merit holder

Planting Tips

Plant in a warm, sunny and sheltered spot — Williams benefits particularly from the protection of a south-facing wall. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish strong roots. Prune in winter to maintain an open, productive framework and feed with a balanced fertiliser each spring.