(Mespilus germanica) Zones 5 - 8. Deciduous fruit tree. This age-old, forgotten fruit is making a big comeback in the permaculture world! Medlar saw its heyday back in Medieval time through The Renaissance when it was enjoyed by peasants and nobility alike. Part of its prominence during this time period is the Medlar's ability to keep as a Winter food source, a sweet one at that. Once picked, Medlar fruit lasts into the Winter months. One reason being is that the fruit needs to break down a bit to release it's sweetness and flavour. They are actually hard and pretty tasteless unless they are allowed time to "blet", or age. I once heard someone say, "A pear is best a few hours before it spoils". It is true; Pears, Persimmons and Medlar are all their sweetest and juiciest when they are nearly overripe. Medlar can be eaten raw, but because of their almost creamy texture there are often enjoyed in the form of pies and custards. Medlars have a high pectin content and make a delicious spiced jelly. Like apples and pears, the Medlar is in the rose family. The tree itself usually grows to around 15 feet tall with white flowers and long deeply ribbed leaves. -------------------------------- Cold Hardiness: Zones 5 - 8 Edible: Yes Size: Small Tree Growth Rate: Slow - Medium Nitrogen Fixer: No Native Plant: No Germination: 50 - 70% Sun Requirements: Full Sun - Light shade Soil Preference: Rich, moist but well draining soil. Does not do well with wind. ---------------------------------- GROWING INSTRUCTIONS **Difficult For best results, sow seeds outdoors in late Summer to early Fall, seeds should germinate in the Spring. If sowing indoors… SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal 4x seed volume. Place in a plastic bag, covered tray/cells or container. STRATIFICATION: 60 days cold/moist (5°C). Place plastic bag with seeds and soil in your refrigerator. Check periodically for even moisture and germination. POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds on the soil surface, tamp down gently. Seeds require light to germinate. Water evenly and regularly. "How To Start Your Tree Seeds". *Excited about growing Trees from seed? Learn more HERE.* --------------------------------- Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.
Related
Related
Related
Related