Growing medlar trees, an often-overlooked treasure, can turn your small garden into a hub of curiosity and delight. These low-maintenance trees produce dark-brown fruit that adds a touch of the extraordinary to any table.
Why Choose Medlar Trees for Your Garden?
Medlar trees, botanically known as Mespilus germanica, have been cultivated since Roman times. Their rarity in stores makes cultivating them a delightful option for any gardener. In a world saturated with common fruit varieties, medlars stand out as a distinctive choice, often eliciting intrigue with their unique appearance and flavor. You might remember them from medieval dishes where the tangy, overripe fruit, known as 'bletted' medlar, accompanied cheeses and meats. Their rich heritage and unusual taste make them not just a fruit tree but a conversation starter in your yard.
How to Grow Medlar Trees - Selecting the Right Location
These trees thrive best in US hardiness zones 5 to 8, preferring a sunny, sheltered site. When planting a medlar tree, protect it from harsh winds and late frosts, potentially by placing it against a sunny wall or in a protected corner of your garden. Ideally, plant during its dormant season from fall to spring, specifically in mild weather when the soil has moisture, usually around October, November, or March.
- Soil Requirements: Medlar trees prefer deep, fertile, well-draining soils. They will thrive in various soil types as long as they are not waterlogged. Make sure that the planting spot allows for significant root development and moisture retention.
- Planting Depth: Water your newly planted tree deeply, ensuring the roots are well-hydrated. A container-grown medlar should be soaked in water before planting.
Caring for Your Medlar Tree: Key Care Tips
Proper care ensures that your medlar tree flourishes and yields delicious fruit. Here are essential medlar fruit care tips to follow
1. Watering: Consistent and deep watering is crucial for young medlar trees as they establish roots. Watering cans or a hose should be used to soak the base, aiming for once or twice a week during spring and summer. Once established, medlars need watering primarily during dry periods when fruits are forming. Applying mulch around the base can also retain soil moisture effectively.
- Consider using organic premium mulch from Walmart to help maintain soil moisture.
2. Fertilizing: To boost your harvest, feeding is vital. A high potassium fertilizer is recommended, such as the organic bonemeal from Walmart. Look for fertilizers with a high third number in the NPK ratio, like 5-5-10 or 3-3-5, and apply it liberally in spring.
3. Pruning: Pruning your medlar tree correctly at establishment will minimize later work. Medlars can be shaped into a bush or half-standard, maintaining an open-centered goblet shape for optimal airflow and reduced pest issues. When pruning, opt for a sharp pair of pruning shears for medlar trees, removing any dead or unhealthy branches. Prune established trees during the dormant season, taking care to preserve new shoots, as fruits grow on the ends of the previous season’s growth.
Harvesting the Medlar Fruits
The harvest season runs from November to December. The fruits won’t be ready for consumption immediately after harvest; they require a process called 'bletting' to develop their full flavor and sweetness. To harvest, gently cut the medlar fruit from the tree using sharp pruning shears, and place them in a bowl for ripening indoors. Eventually, the leathery skin is discarded, while the soft pulp inside is perfect for eating or using in various dishes.
- Bletting Process: The fruits may look unappetizing during this ripening phase, but with time, they transform into something delicious, reminiscent of apples and cherries combined.
- Harvesting Tips: Ensure that you prune carefully to avoid damaging the tree while gathering the fruit. The process of 'bletting' is essential for enhancing their overall flavor and sweetness.
FAQs About Medlar Trees
1. How long until medlar trees bear fruit? Medlar trees will generally begin to produce fruit around three or four years after planting, depending on their size and conditions when initially planted.
2. Should I stake my medlar tree? Yes, staking can help establish a sturdy trunk, but remove it after three or four years when the tree is well-rooted.
Medlar trees are not just a charming addition to any garden; they are a testament to a bygone era, rich with flavor and history. If you're looking to up your gardening game, consider expanding your collection by adding another exotic tree, such as the pawpaw, which offers another delightful fruiting experience.
Remember, investing in quality tools such as sturdy spades and a good pair of gardening gloves is wise for successful planting and care of your new medlar tree. Stylish and functional equipment can greatly enhance the gardening experience.