How To Grow Medlar Trees: A Guide For Gardeners
Growing Medlar
Medlar is a unique and rewarding plant to grow, as it is both edible and has many decorative uses. Medlars have a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for adding to desserts, jams, or making into jellies. Growing medlar is also a great way to bring in some extra pollinators to your garden. The white, fragrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, as well as adding beauty to your property. Medlar is a versatile and rewarding plant to grow, producing fragrant blossoms, delicious fruit, and offering a variety of uses in the garden.
Medlar Tree Growing Cheatsheet
Choosing the Right Location 🌳
Find a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Consider its ability to tolerate urban pollution.
Planting Tips 🌱
Soak roots in water for 1 hour before planting.
Space trees 15-20 feet apart for optimal growth.
Watering Advice 💧
Maintain soil moisture with regular watering.
Water deeply, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Fertilizing Needs 🌿
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent fruit drop.
Fruit Harvesting 🍏
Wait until fruit turns brownish-yellow.
Harvest before first frost for optimal flavor.
Storage and Ripening 🌬️
Store medlars in a cool, dry place for 2-3 weeks.
Allow fruits to blet (soften) before eating.
Health Benefits 🌟
Packed with Vitamin C and fiber.
Boosts immune system and aids digestion.
Self-Sufficiency 👩🌾
Grow your own delicious, unique fruit.
Create a beautiful and productive garden space.
How To Grow Medlar Trees: A Guide For Gardeners
Choosing the Right Variety
There are several medlar varieties to choose from, but my personal favorite is 'Nottingham'. It’s known for its rich flavor and compact size.
Other noteworthy varieties include 'Royal' and 'Dutch'. It all depends on your climate and taste preferences.
Planting Medlar Trees
Ideal Soil and Location
Medlars aren’t too picky, but they thrive in well-drained soil. They prefer a sunny spot, though partial shade works too.
Ensure the soil is slightly acidic to neutral. I’ve found that adding compost helps maintain the right pH balance.
Planting Process
- Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.
- Place the tree in the hole, making sure the root collar is level with the ground.
- Backfill with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets.
- Water thoroughly to help the tree settle in.
Don’t forget to mulch around the base to retain moisture and control weeds. A 3-inch layer of organic mulch works wonders.
Caring for Your Medlar Tree
Watering
Medlar trees are drought-tolerant, but young trees need regular watering. Aim for deep watering once a week.
In particularly dry spells, I water more frequently. Established trees can fend for themselves with minimal intervention.
Fertilizing
Medlar trees don’t demand much fertilizer. I apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Avoid excessive nitrogen as it promotes leaf growth at the expense of fruit.
Pruning
I prune medlar trees in late winter to early spring. This is crucial for maintaining shape and removing dead wood.
Focus on thinning out crowded branches to improve air circulation. This prevents disease and promotes healthy growth.
Pests and Diseases
Medlars are relatively pest-free, but keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars. A strong water spray usually dislodges them.
Fungal diseases can occur in humid conditions. Copper-based fungicides are effective, but good airflow reduces the risk significantly.
Harvesting Medlars
One of the quirkiest things about medlars is that they must be bletted. This means letting them become slightly overripe.
Harvest in late autumn and store in a cool, dry place until the flesh darkens and softens, typically 2-3 weeks.
Medlars are often described as having a taste reminiscent of spiced applesauce once bletted. Truly unique!
Personal Experience
Growing Medlar trees has been a rewarding journey for me. I remember tasting my first bletted medlar; it was like discovering a hidden gem in the gardening world.
The tree itself has an ornamental appeal, especially in late autumn when the fruits hang on bare branches. It’s a conversation starter in my garden.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a unique addition to your garden, medlar trees are a fantastic option. Happy gardening and enjoy the peculiar delight of medlars!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I grow a medlar tree?
To grow medlar trees, obtain a young tree from a nursery or propagate from seeds. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant the tree in the spring or fall, ensuring the graft union is above ground. Mulch and water regularly.
2. What are the ideal growing conditions for medlar trees?
Medlar trees thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They prefer loamy or sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Adequate air circulation is also important for preventing diseases.
3. How long does it take for a medlar tree to bear fruit?
Medlar trees typically start bearing fruit after 3-4 years, but it can take up to 8 years. Patience is key during the initial years of growth.
4. Do medlar trees require special care?
Medlar trees are generally low-maintenance but benefit from routine care. Provide regular watering, especially during dry periods. Prune to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Fertilize in the early spring to support growth.
5. How do I harvest medlar fruit?
Medlar fruit is harvested when it reaches a soft, custard-like consistency. Twist and pull the fruit gently, leaving the calyx intact. Allow the harvested medlars to ripen indoors for two weeks before consumption.
6. What are common pests and diseases affecting medlar trees?
Medlar trees can be susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and canker. Regular inspection, proper sanitation, and timely treatment, if necessary, will help control these issues.
Medlar is a highly versatile plant that not only provides a spectacular display of white, fragrant flowers in the spring, but also produces small fruits that can be used both fresh or dried in a number of interesting culinary recipes. Its hardiness and minimal maintenance requirements make it a great choice for beginner gardeners and experienced green-thumbs alike! Growing Medlar in your garden provides a great opportunity to learn more about horticulture and create something truly rewarding.
Find out which plants will thrive in your garden!
Answer a few fun questions and get custom plant recommendations perfect for your space. Let’s grow something amazing together!
start your season