"The Pyrus communis 'Onward' is a cultivar known for its excellent dessert pear qualities. It exhibits characteristics reminiscent of the Doyenne du Comice pear but is generally more dependable in terms of reliability and crop yield. The fruit is medium-sized with a smooth pale green-yellow skin that may have a pinkish flush or russeting. The creamy white flesh is fine, soft, juicy, and possesses a sweet, rich, and buttery flavor similar to an early Comice pear. This particular pear was developed at the National Fruit Trials in Wisley, Surrey, in 1947 and has since received recognition, including an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. It's noted for its resistance to spring frosts and consistent heavy cropping, making it suitable for cultivation in northern regions. When it comes to pollination partners, 'Onward' can cross-pollinate with various pear cultivars, including Beth, Conference, Fondante d'Automne, Josephine de Malines, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Merton Pride, and Winter Nelis. However, it's interesting to note that while 'Onward' can pollinate several other pear varieties, it may not be an effective pollinator for the Doyenne du Comice pear. The fruiting season for 'Onward' typically ranges from September to early October, offering good yields within that shorter timeframe. It falls into pollination group 4, which indicates its compatibility with other pears for cross-pollination purposes."