Quince

Growing

Quince trees are hardy and need little maintenance once established. They tolerate various light levels, but plenty of sunlight is needed for large blossoms and fully ripe fruit. For a new tree, start with nursery stock or use grafting so the fruit quality matches the parent, as these trees rarely grow true to seed.

Watch the tree during wet summers, as high humidity can trigger leaf blight, which causes spotting and early leaf drop. Pests include aphids, scale, and codling moths. Caterpillars rolling the leaves are leafrollers. The tree is resilient, and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 will help prevent many common issues.

Even when ripe, the fruit remains hard, tart, and astringent. Harvest when the skin turns golden yellow. Because the fruit improves after being picked, you can store unwashed specimens in a cool, dark cellar to maintain their aroma. They cook down well into jams, jellies, or a firm fruit paste.