Quince, a yellow fruit resembling an apple and pear, isn't typically eaten raw due to its bitter taste. Instead, it's cooked into crumbles, chutneys, jams, and Membrillo (quince paste).
Quince thrives in warm-temperate and temperate climates across all continents. To flower effectively, it needs a cooler period of the year with temperatures below 7 °C (45 °F).
Plant quince trees when dormant between November and March. Select warm, sunny, sheltered spots for early flower opening and fruit ripening. Avoid areas prone to late frosts.
When initially planting, water your quince tree deeply every two weeks. Afterwards, water monthly, as it's not very drought-tolerant. Keep soil moist, never letting it dry completely.
Water newly planted quince trees generously in their first growing season. Quinces thrive in moist soil and even established trees benefit from extra water during hot, dry spells, especially when fruits swell.
Harvest quinces cautiously; despite their firm texture, they bruise easily. Choose the yellowest ones and carefully snip them from the tree with sharp secateurs.