Meddling with medlars

Hi Zach and All,

We planted a 2-year-old self-fertile Breda Giant medlar sapling four years ago, and while it looks pretty happy, it has yet to fruit.  It's in full sun, has a low stone wall behind it, and is in slightly alkaline soil.  Should it be fruiting at this point?  Does it have favourite guildmates?

Thanks!

It should be, yes. I have this variety, but it has pollination partners. Has it been making blossoms?

No, it hasn't been.  So, I guess it's not so happy after all!

James Landreth wrote:It should be, yes. I have this variety, but it has pollination partners. Has it been making blossoms?

Dian Hong wrote:No, it hasn't been.  So, I guess it's not so happy after all!

James Landreth wrote:It should be, yes. I have this variety, but it has pollination partners. Has it been making blossoms?

I would try to amend the soil (not saying to use chemical fertilizers of course) such that the plant has access to more potassium and phosphorous. What's the soil like there, and have you done anything to remediate it, like mulching?

My medlars have flowered and fruited abundantly from their second year onwards

Thanks James.  We'll give this a try!  When we first planted the medlar, we amended the soil with well-rotted horse manure.  We add some compost each year, and added some worm castings last year, but are just starting to learn how to build soil health.  Looks like we should give kelp meal and mushroom compost a try.  Is there anything else you'd suggest for adding potassium and phosphorous?  Either way, thanks for your suggestions.  

James Landreth wrote:It should be, yes. I have this variety, but it has pollination partners. Has it been making blossoms?

I would try to amend the soil (not saying to use chemical fertilizers of course) such that the plant has access to more potassium and phosphorous. What's the soil like there, and have you done anything to remediate it, like mulching?

My medlars have flowered and fruited abundantly from their second year onwards