Quince

Overview

Quince is normally a large tree unsuitable for allotment sites but the dwarfing self- fertile variety Leskovacz from Serbia will form an attractive 1.75 m high bush with pale pink blossom in spring. The only pruning required is to reduce any strongly growing verticals by half their season’s growth, whilst dormant.  Quince also need a long growing season and a sheltered spot, so are more suitable for the south of the country; this variety can also be grown in a pot in soil based compost.

How to grow

Planting - containerised trees can be planted in all but the worst conditions, bare root trees are available between November and March and can be planted if the ground is not frozen or sodden.

• Soil and aspect. A free draining and reasonably fertile soil is best, no fruit tree likes to be waterlogged at the roots. A south or west facing aspect is required for most dessert fruits.
• Open and airy site. The planting site should be free from the competition of overhanging trees/buildings and there must be the free movement of air to prevent diseases such as canker establishing itself. Under damp conditions the branch work must be able to dry quickly.
• Avoid frost pockets and positions that are exposed to high winds. These will cause damage to developing fruits and flowers at critical times in their development.

Dig a wide hole no deeper than the roots, breaking up the sides and base with a fork. Place the tree in the centre and the stake to the side if one is required. Refill with soil, firming as you go to remove air pockets then water and mulch; ensure that the area is kept free of weeds.

Keep your quince well watered during dry periods and mulch thickly in spring.Feed with with a balanced fertilizer in spring - pot grown plants will need fortnightly liquid feeds during winter

 

How to Harvest

The yellow pear shaped fruit are ready in October when very fragrant and can be stored for up to 3 months in a dark, dry, cool place. The fruit makes excellent preserves, can be used to make a liqueur and cooked with meats such as pork and pheasant.

Issues

There are a variety of pests and diseases such as aphids, codling moth and mildew that can affect your quince tree, you can limit their effects by practicing good hygiene, pruning appropriately, using physical barriers such as traps or grease bands to deter codling moth and encouraging natural predators such as ladybirds and lacewings.