Medlar Care Guide

The medlar (Mespilus germanica) is an ancient fruit tree native to the Mediterranean, Turkey, Iran, and the Caucasus region. Known for its unique and distinct fruit, the medlar has a long history in both culinary and ornamental uses. Here’s a comprehensive care guide for growing and enjoying this fascinating tree.

1. History and Origin

The medlar has been known since antiquity:

Ancient Greece: The fruit was mentioned as early as 700 BC by the poet Archilochus of Paros.
Rome: By around 200 BC, medlars had reached Rome following the Macedonian Wars. The famous Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder described the fruit.
Medieval Period: Medlars were valued in medieval gardens, with Charlemagne promoting them in the Imperial Gardens. The St. Gallen Monastery list from 820 also included the medlar as a desirable fruit tree.

The medlar was often grown in ornamental, park-like gardens due to its picturesque appearance, and it has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, especially in eco-conscious or traditional orchards.

2. Description of the Medlar Tree

Size: The medlar is a small to medium-sized tree, typically growing between 8’-25’ tall depending on variety and rootstock. It has a broad, spreading crown.
Foliage: The leaves are long, pointed, and about 5 inches in length (similar to loquat), with a hairy underside. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful reddish-brown color.
Trunk and Branches: The trunk and branches of the medlar are often contorted, giving the tree an unusual, gnarled appearance, adding to its ornamental value.
Flowers: In late spring (mid-May), the tree produces a mass of small, white, scentless flowers, similar to pear or quince flowers, that attract pollinators.
Fruit: The fruit is greenish-yellow when unripe and resembles an apple, but with a distinct indentation at the top, surrounded by the calyx. The fruit needs to undergo the bletting process (fermentation) to be edible.

3. Planting and Growing Medlars

Climate: Medlars thrive in temperate climates and can withstand light frost. They prefer a mild, Mediterranean climate, with dry summers and cooler winters.
Soil: The tree is relatively adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Heavy clay or waterlogged soils should be avoided as the tree does not tolerate wet feet.
Sunlight: Medlars grow best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. The more sunlight they receive, the better the fruit quality.
Spacing: Space medlars appropriately according to their rootstock/mature size to allow them to develop their broad, spreading crowns.

For medlar grafted to Quince, allow 10’ of space.
For semi-dwarf rootstock like OHxF333 allow 12’.
For taller rootstock like Callery pear, allow 15’.

4. Watering and Fertilization

Watering: While medlars are relatively drought-tolerant once established, they should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth, especially in dry periods. Ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot.
Fertilization: Medlars are not heavy feeders, but they will benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring before new growth begins. Organic slow-release fertilizer can also be applied in the fall. If your soil is poor, you can add compost in the fall or early spring to boost organic matter and nutrients.

5. Pruning Medlar Trees

Medlar trees require minimal pruning, but occasional shaping and thinning can help improve air circulation and encourage healthy growth. Here's how to approach pruning:

Shape the Tree: In the early years, prune to establish a strong central leader and a balanced framework of branches.
Remove Dead or Diseased Wood: Prune any dead or damaged branches during the dormant season to promote healthy growth.
Thin Excessive Growth: If the tree becomes overcrowded, thin out some branches to improve light penetration and airflow, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

6. Harvesting Medlar Fruit

Timing: Medlar fruit is harvested in late autumn, but it must be bletted (fermented) before it becomes edible. At harvest, the fruit will still be hard and greenish-yellow.
Bletting Process: To "blet" the fruit, place the unripe, hard fruit in a cool, dry place (such as a cellar) for several weeks, ideally in layers of straw or sawdust. During this time, the fruit will soften and turn brownish in color. As the fruit ferments, its texture becomes soft and the tannic acidity is reduced.
Consumption: Once bletted, the fruit can be eaten raw, sucked out of its skin, or used in recipes. It has a coarse, apple-sauce-like texture with a flavor often compared to cinnamon-spiced applesauce.
Preservation: The fruit can also be made into jellies, wine, cider, or syrups, as the high pectin content makes it ideal for preserves.

7. Uses of the Medlar Tree

The medlar tree is not only valued for its fruit but also for its hard, durable wood:

Wood: Historically, the wood was used for making spearpoints, clubs, and hunting weapons, and later for parts of windmills.
Fruit: Beyond raw consumption, medlars have been used in medicinal tonics, fermented beverages (like wine or cider), and can be sugared or cooked into preserves due to their high pectin content.

8. Pests and Diseases

Medlars are relatively pest-resistant, but like any fruit tree, they may occasionally face issues:

Pests: Look out for common orchard pests like aphids or fruit flies. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to control these pests naturally.
Diseases: Medlars are susceptible to some fungal diseases like powdery mildew or rust, especially in humid climates. Ensure good air circulation around the tree and prune any diseased wood. Applying organic fungicides can also help.
Crown and Root Rot: Ensure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil to prevent root rot, a common issue in soggy soils.

9. Medlar Tree Benefits

Ornamental Value: The medlar's gnarled trunk, spreading canopy, and attractive fall color make it an excellent addition to any garden or orchard. Its spring flowers and unique fruit also add ornamental value.
Low Maintenance: Once established, medlar trees are hardy and require minimal care compared to other fruit trees. They are resistant to many common fruit tree pests and diseases.

Conclusion

The medlar is a unique, historic fruit tree that offers both culinary and ornamental benefits. While its unusual fruit requires a bit of patience (via the bletting process), it can be used in a variety of ways, from raw consumption to wine making and jelly production. Its resilience, easy care, and distinctive appearance make it a rewarding tree for any garden or orchard. Whether you're interested in adding an ancient fruit to your landscape or experimenting with its delicious, fragrant fruit, the medlar is a worthwhile choice.

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