Troubleshooting
Leskovac quince problems — and how to fix them
Leskovac quince (Cydonia oblonga 'Leskovac') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Quince leaf blight (Entomosporium mespili)
Common fungal disease in humid conditions causing circular red-brown lesions on leaves and fruit, eventually causing defoliation. Remove fallen leaves, improve airflow by pruning, and apply copper fungicide preventatively from bud break.
Frost damage to blossom
'Leskovac' blooms relatively early and spring frost can destroy blossom, eliminating the crop entirely. Grow in a sheltered position, avoid frost pockets, and consider fleece protection for young trees during late frosts.
Quince rust (Gymnosporangium clavipes)
Fungal rust disease causing orange-red spore pustules on leaves and fruit. Alternates between quince and juniper hosts; removing nearby ornamental junipers breaks the cycle. Copper sprays at bud break reduce infection.
Prevent leskovac quince problems before they start
Most leskovac quince issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Leskovac quince problems — FAQ
Why is my leskovac quince quince leaf blight (entomosporium mespili)?
Common fungal disease in humid conditions causing circular red-brown lesions on leaves and fruit, eventually causing defoliation. Remove fallen leaves, improve airflow by pruning, and apply copper fungicide preventatively from bud break.
Why is my leskovac quince frost damage to blossom?
'Leskovac' blooms relatively early and spring frost can destroy blossom, eliminating the crop entirely. Grow in a sheltered position, avoid frost pockets, and consider fleece protection for young trees during late frosts.
Why is my leskovac quince quince rust (gymnosporangium clavipes)?
Fungal rust disease causing orange-red spore pustules on leaves and fruit. Alternates between quince and juniper hosts; removing nearby ornamental junipers breaks the cycle. Copper sprays at bud break reduce infection.