Pears are a delicious orchard fruit that packs tons of fiber and vitamin C in a tiny package. Pears take a little patience on your part. They do not ripen on the tree but instead on your kitchen counter. Check your pears for ripeness by pressing the neck of the pear with your thumb. If the pear yields, it is ready. If not, set that juicy goodness down and give it a little more time. Once they are ripe, pop them in the fridge for up to 5 days.