Troubleshooting
Medlar problems — and how to fix them
Medlar (Mespilus germanica) 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.
Confusion over harvest timing
Fruit is hard and astringent until bletted; pick in late autumn after the first frosts and store until soft and brown before eating, or it is inedible.
Fungal leaf spot
Damp summers can bring leaf spotting and minor blossom blight; rake fallen leaves and thin the canopy for airflow to limit carry-over.
Graft suckering
Grafted trees (often on hawthorn or quince rootstock) throw up rootstock suckers; remove them promptly so they do not overtake the named variety.
Bird and wasp damage
Softening bletted fruit attracts wasps and birds; harvest before fully blet and finish ripening indoors to protect the crop.
Prevent medlar problems before they start
Most medlar issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for medlar in general rather than its problems? Read the full medlar care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Medlar problems — FAQ
Why is my medlar confusion over harvest timing?
Fruit is hard and astringent until bletted; pick in late autumn after the first frosts and store until soft and brown before eating, or it is inedible.
Why is my medlar fungal leaf spot?
Damp summers can bring leaf spotting and minor blossom blight; rake fallen leaves and thin the canopy for airflow to limit carry-over.
Why is my medlar graft suckering?
Grafted trees (often on hawthorn or quince rootstock) throw up rootstock suckers; remove them promptly so they do not overtake the named variety.
Why is my medlar bird and wasp damage?
Softening bletted fruit attracts wasps and birds; harvest before fully blet and finish ripening indoors to protect the crop.