Why Grow Medlar Trees?

Until a random encounter at an old orchard in France, the medlar tree had never piqued my gardening curiosity. Stubborn-looking fruit, gnarly branches, and the odd habit of ripening fruit only after it softens (a process called bletting)—not exactly enticing at first sight.

Yet, my initial skepticism vanished after tasting my first perfectly ripe medlar—a wild mix between ripe apple custard and spiced cider jelly. So, if you're drawn to lesser-known fruits, ancient cultivars, and intriguing horticultural experiences, medlar trees (Mespilus germanica) deserve a prominent spot in your orchard.

Choosing the Right Location for Growing Medlar

Medlars prefer a spot with full sun exposure. While partial shade doesn't entirely deter growth, fruit yield and tree vigor flourish with at least six hours of sun daily.

These resilient trees adapt surprisingly well to various soil conditions. However, I've had the most success planting medlars in loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH between 6.0 and 7.5), enriched with organic compost.

Avoid planting medlars in overly heavy clay or waterlogged areas—as Leonard Perry, horticultural professor emeritus from the University of Vermont, emphasizes:

"Good drainage is the medlar tree’s best friend; poorly drained soil conditions can severely stunt growth and fruit development."

Planting Your Medlar Tree: Simple Yet Strategic Steps

Plant your grafted or young medlar sapling ideally in early fall or early spring. Milder conditions enhance strong, healthy root establishment.

1. Dig a hole twice the width and as deep as the tree's root ball.
2. Mix enriched compost or aged manure in equal parts with existing garden soil.
3. Position your tree securely, ensuring the graft union sits two inches (around 5 cm) above the soil level.
4. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch heavily around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Watering and Fertilizing Medlar Trees for Optimal Results

Proper watering turned out to be unexpectedly straightforward. In my sun-drenched California garden, giving newly planted medlars a few deep soakings per week through their first summer ensures thriving roots and healthy growth.

Established medlars rarely complain about drought, only requiring moderate watering during prolonged dry seasons. Fertilizing remains just as uncomplicated:

• Apply balanced organic fertilizer, such as composted manure or slow-release organic pellets, once annually in early spring.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen-rich fertilizer, as lush foliage growth can happen at the cost of fewer fruits.

Careful Pruning Makes the Difference

Medlars typically reach heights between 12 and 20 feet (3.5 to 6 meters) depending on cultivar and growing conditions. Left unattended, branches tend to intertwine making harvest tricky.

Regular thinning in late winter or early spring encourages air circulation and sunlight penetration, resulting in improved fruit yield and healthier growth habits.

I prune annually, cutting away dead or crossing branches to maintain a spacious, open canopy. Keep in mind, medlars fruit reliably on older wood, so avoid heavy pruning, as advised by the Royal Horticultural Society:

"Medlar trees fruit mainly on short spurs arising from older growth, so beyond basic shaping and health maintenance, resist the urge to drastically prune annually."

Dealing with Common Pests and Diseases

Medlars rarely succumb to pests or diseases compared to more delicate fruit trees like peaches or cherries. Still, watch out for common issues like aphids or occasional fungal leaf spots.

In my orchard, preventative treatments with neem oil and maintaining good garden hygiene have effectively kept problems at bay. Always clear fallen plant debris to prevent fungal pathogens from establishing themselves in your medlar haven.

Bletting and Harvest: Patience Pays Off

Medlar fruits mature in late autumn but wait—don't rush picking. Harvest only when fruits separate easily with a slight twist.

I gather fruit and place them in a cool, airy store where they gently soften and sweeten—a process elegantly named bletting. Bletting typically takes around two to three weeks, but timing can vary based on temperature and humidity.

Perfectly bletted medlars indicate readiness with a soft, yielding feel somewhat evocative of ripe avocados—firm yet tender. Culinary uses abound in preserving, desserts, and even unique, old-world flavored vinegar recipes.

Choosing the Best Medlar Varieties

Medlar varieties might be limited today, yet I've enjoyed success with these standout cultivars:

• 'Nottingham': Compact growth, beautiful white flowers, and reliable fruit production make Nottingham medlar a personal favorite in smaller spaces.
• 'Dutch' Medlar: Offers slightly larger fruits with pronounced flavor along with consistent yields, ideal for cooking and preserves.
• 'Royal' Medlar: Prized for ornamental beauty, robust fruiting, and exceptional fruit quality, the Royal is a handsome specimen for prominent garden spaces.

Medlar Trees Bring Delightful Charm and History

Beyond unique fruit production, medlars offer ornamental appeal year-round—springtime blossoms buzz with pollinators, autumn leaves turn amber and scarlet, and bare winter branches display intriguing architectural beauty. Moreover, their legacy goes deeper—a fruit revered since medieval times for both culinary and medicinal uses.

So, planting medlar trees adds intriguing depth, rich history, and robust flavor to gardens and orchards alike. They're surprisingly easy, undeniably rewarding, and infinitely conversation-sparking—a fruit tree worth planting and celebrating.

Growing Medlar rewards both patience and curiosity. These trees thrive on a bit of neglect, asking mainly for well-drained soil, sunlight, and the occasional pruning. Give them space and time, and they’ll pay you back with unusual, honeyed fruit that ripen long after the harvest rush is done. Don’t be surprised if their twisted branches and late-season bounty spark neighborhood curiosity. You don’t need expensive gear—just a willingness to wait and taste something different. If you’re interested in adding more rare fruit to your garden, consider planting a loquat alongside your medlar for a truly unique home orchard. In the world of fruit, growing medlar is for those who appreciate slow food, deep flavor, and a sense of history rooted right in your backyard. Give it a try. The rewards are old-fashioned—and unforgettable.