An almost forgotten fruit is currently experiencing a renaissance in our gardens: the apple quince. In order for the otherwise undemanding trees to bear well, they must be pruned regularly. This is not only important to keep uncontrolled wild growth in check, but also serves to prevent disease.
Apple quinces are only pruned from the second or third year
When is the right time for this care measure?
As a rule, it is sufficient to prune these fruit trees every second or third year. This should be done in early spring, before flowering begins. In rough areas, however, be sure to wait until after the ice saints, because only then are there no longer any threats of late frosts.
During the year you should check the tree regularly. If leaves appear with small, reddish-brown spots or if the foliage is completely discolored, cut them off immediately. Your apple quince is then affected by leaf blight, a plant disease that can be kept in check by pruning.
What is the right way to cut?
Only use very sharp and clean cutting tools for tree trimming. This ensures that no pathogens or fungi can penetrate through the cut and damage the tree. Apple quinces need at least four years before they bear the first fruits. During this time the tree only thinned out:
- In the first few years, try to let the crown of the tree get a bit wider, this will allow more light to reach the interior of the tree and the late-ripening fruits.
- To do this, cut out specific branches and shape the apple quince into the desired shape.
- In addition, remove any branches that grow inward or downward.
Pruning older trees
Older quince trees only have to be thinned out every two to three years. You can recognize old wood by the fact that it is hardly or not at all covered by the downy layer of the quinces. Apple quinces bear fruit on short side shoots, so make sure that the trees are sparse even on older trees.
- Remove any branches and twigs that grow inward or downward.
- Shorten the leading branches until there are four in a horizontal line.
- Cut off water shoots directly on the trunk.
- Also remove shoots that are too long and close together.
tips
According to their shape, quince fruits are divided into apple and pear quinces. The pulp, the number of seeds and the taste also differ.