Quince Meechs Prolific

Product Description

Cydonia oblonga Quince Meech's Prolific Growing Tips.

Quinces tolerate a range of soil but grow best in a deep, fertile, moisture-retentive soil.  Although they are hardy, they need a warm, sunny, sheltered spot, as the flowers are susceptible to frost, and sun is needed for the fruit to ripen.

In southern England they can be grown in the open, but farther north it is best planted in a sheltered position, for example against a wall with a south or south-west aspect.

Plant new Quince trees between November and March. Bush trees should be about 3.5m (12ft) apart Stake trees for the first three or four years.

Quinces are self-fertile and usually start cropping when four - five years old.

As with any fruiting tree, feeding and mulching is important. In February apply a general fertiliser, such as Growmore for example, at 100g per sq m (3oz per sq yd). In late March, apply sulphate of ammonia at 35g per sq m (1oz per sq yd). Mulch in early spring with well-rotted farmyard manure or compost, keeping the material clear of the tree trunk. Water well in dry during dry spells in spring and summer.

Harvesting The fruits should be left on the tree as long as possible to develop their flavour, provided there is no danger of frost. They usually ripen in late October or early November when they will be golden-coloured and aromatic. Only undamaged fruits should be picked and then stored in a cool, dark place on shallow trays. Ensure the fruits do not touch, and do not wrap them. Allow them to mellow for six and eight weeks before use. Quinces are strongly aromatic so avoid storing with other fruits. They will keep for two or three months.

Pruning and training Quinces fruit mostly on the tips of the shoots made the previous year. They do not form many fruiting spurs. Prune and train in the dormant season between late autumn and early spring. The branch framework is developed along the same lines as for an apple. After the fourth year, only light pruning is necessary, apart from the occasional removal of crowding or low-lying branches.

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