Origin and Common Names
Mespilus germanica L. is a species of small deciduous tree or shrub, belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia Minor, particularly in southern Europe and western Asia. The plant is commonly known as the medlar, or alternatively, the common medlar, European medlar, or wild medlar.
Appearance
The medlar is a small, slow-growing, bushy deciduous tree or large shrub, that typically grows to a height of 5-6 meters, with a spread of up to 4 meters wide. It has a rounded, dense, and bushy crown of branches, with a gnarled and twisted trunk. The leaves of the medlar are simple, alternate, dark green, and slightly glossy, measuring around 8-15 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, producing small, cup-shaped white flowers, which are followed by a roundish, fruit resembling a small apple in appearance.
Uses
The medlar is primarily grown for its fruit, which is eaten fresh or cooked. The fruit can be harvested once it falls naturally from the tree and is then left to ripen in a cool, dry place for several weeks. Once ripened, the medlar fruit can be consumed raw, or made into jams, jellies, syrups, and alcoholic beverages. The fruit is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, ranging from digestive problems to colds, and flu-like symptoms.
The medlar is also grown as a garden ornamental, prized for its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and unique fruit. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, and is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Light requirements
Mespilus germanica L. prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure is recommended. A shaded location may result in a decreased yield and the poor quality of fruits.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Mespilus germanica L. growth is between 10-25°C (50-77°F). The plant is relatively cold-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F), but frost can damage flowers and fruits, reducing the yield. In hot regions, the plant needs sufficient irrigation to avoid water stress and maintain growth.
Soil requirements
Mespilus germanica L. prefers well-drained fertile soil, rich in organic matter. The optimal pH range is between 5.5-7.5, and the soil should be deep enough to allow for the growth of a taproot system. The plant is drought-tolerant, but overly dry soil can negatively affect its growth and fruit quality. In contrast, saturated, poorly-drained soil can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Mespilus germanica L., commonly known as the medlar tree, is a deciduous fruit tree that grows in various soil types across temperate regions. When choosing a site to plant, it is imperative to select a spot with well-drained soil and full access to sunlight. Young medlar trees should be planted in the springtime, and care should be taken to provide adequate protection from harsh winds during the early establishment period.
Watering Needs
Medlar trees should be watered regularly but avoid over-watering as excessive moisture may lead to root rot. The watering frequency may increase during dry spells, but always ensure the soil is not waterlogged as this may undermine the overall health of the plant.
Fertilization
For optimal yield, the medlar tree requires proper fertilization. A balanced N-P-K fertilizer can be applied in the early spring just before new growth appears. Fertilizer application, however, may vary depending on the individual needs of each tree. Always be mindful to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging.
Pruning
Medlar trees tend to form an attractive open crown-shaped canopy without any significant branch overlap. However, pruning may be necessary to enhance fruit quality, remove broken or diseased branches, and improve sunlight penetration. Pruning, when done correctly, contributes to the overall health and longevity of the tree. A good time to prune is during the dormant period, usually in late winter before the new growth cycle begins.
Propagation of Mespilus germanica L.
Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. Mespilus germanica L., commonly known as the medlar tree, can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, grafting, layering, and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Medlar tree seeds can be collected from ripe fruit in the fall. The seeds should be planted in the soil immediately after harvesting. It is best to plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture and keep the soil moist until germination. Germination can take anywhere from two weeks to two months.
Grafting
Grafting is a common method for propagating medlar trees. The grafting technique involves taking a scion, which is a young shoot or bud, and attaching it to an existing rootstock. This process allows for the propagation of specific cultivars that have favorable characteristics. Grafting is usually done in the early spring or late fall.
Layering
Layering is a propagation technique that involves bending down a branch or stem of the medlar tree so that it touches the ground. The spot where the branch touches the ground is then wounded and buried with soil. Over time, roots will form at the wound site, and a new plant will grow. Once the new plant is established, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another propagation technique that involves taking a section of a stem or branch and planting it to produce a new plant. The cutting should be taken from the current year's growth and should be about 6-8 inches long. It is best to take cuttings in the early summer and root them in a well-draining soil mixture. The cutting should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until it has developed roots.
Disease Management
The Mespilus germanica L., commonly known as medlar, is affected by various fungal diseases, including:
- Fire blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes the leaves and twigs to blacken and wither. It can be prevented by pruning and removing infected parts of the plant and avoiding over-fertilization.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes spots on the leaves and can be prevented by keeping the plant dry and ensuring proper air circulation.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and using fungicides if necessary.
It is important to remove and dispose of infected plant debris to prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, pruning and maintaining good sanitation practices can also help manage the spread of diseases.
Pest Management
The medlar can be affected by various pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause leaf curling and distortion. They can be managed by using insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Leafhoppers: These insects suck plant sap and can cause leaf yellowing and wilting. They can be controlled by using insecticides or by removing affected plant parts.
- Fruit flies: These insects can damage the fruit by laying eggs and causing tunneling. They can be prevented by using sticky traps or by harvesting the fruit early.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for these pests and take appropriate measures to manage them. Using organic and cultural control methods such as maintaining good garden hygiene can also help prevent infestations.
