They may not be at the forefront of most fruit gardener’s plans, but don’t write off these handsome trees just yet
GARDENINGFORwellbeing
There aren’t many fruits that you can tuck into in the cold months of winter, but the rich, musky flavour of medlars are a winter delight to be savoured. Something of an acquired taste, these forgotten fruits are tart when eaten raw, so it’s best to use them in desserts or carry out bletting first. This is a process designed to soften the fruit to bring out the sweetness.
Unfortunately, between the slightly divisive taste and requirement for rotting a little to make them more palatable, they’ve (perhaps understandably) fallen out of fashion slightly. But, give the medlar a go, and you’ll be treated to glossy green foliage and big white blooms that’ll keep your garden looking beautiful year-round.
Best growing conditions
Where should you grow medlars? Ideally in an open and sunny site in order to get the best from them. They can tolerate some shade, but won’t be quite as prolific. Make sure to avoid frost pockets. Deep, fertile and well-drained soil is advised, but these trees will tolerate most soil types. Due to its spreading tendencies, it’s better-suited to larger gardens.
Usually, medlars are grafted onto a Quince A rootstock, rather than grown on their own roots. Common varieties include ‘Dutch’, ‘Royal’ and ‘Nottingham’. All are self-fertile meaning only a single tree is required.
Pruning and troubleshooting
Prune medlars in a similar way to apple trees, in winter when dormant. This will help to m
