It seems fitting that Jeff and Kristine Boullioun named their Oroville, WA, orchard Busy Bee because when it comes time to harvest their mix of organic Asian pear varieties, that is exactly what they emulate.

From implementing organic growing practices in all of their 58 acres to hand- picking and hand-packing each piece of fruit, the Boulliouns work tirelessly to ensure consumers get to experience only the best-tasting Asian pears. The Boulliouns grow fruit exclusively for Stemilt Growers, a leading tree fruit company based in Wenatchee, WA.

According to Stemilt Marketing Director Roger Pepperl, Asian pears comprise a large group of pear varieties that have the same crunch, shape and juicy qualities as apples with the rich, floral-like taste of pears.

"Asian pears offer retailers a unique opportunity to build profits within their pear category," Mr. Pepperl said in a press release. "They ripen on the tree and maintain a crisp texture at retail and in cold storage. Plus, they typically peak during the months of September and October, making right now the perfect time for retailers to promote these specialty fruits."

The Boulliouns' history of growing fruit organically dates back to 1998. Today, they raise 11 varieties of organic Asian pears: Ichiban, Kosui, 20th Century, Hosui, Shinseiki, Olympic, Atago, Yoinashi, Shin Li, Shinko and Arirang.

The Boulliouns are best-in-class growers of Asian pears. Beyond tending to each variety's specific nutrient needs, "they individually sock each pear to prevent bruising and then hand-pack to ensure only the highest-quality Asian pears make it to consumers," Mr. Pepperl added in the release.

He also indicated that while the peak for Asian pears will continue through October, Stemilt will be offering a wide range of the Boulliouns' varieties into November and December.