Medlar Seeds
(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.
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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.
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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS **Difficult
For best results, sow seeds outdoors in Fall, seeds will germinate not the following Spring, but the one after. If sowing indoors…
SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal to 3-4 times seed volume. Place in a plastic bag, covered tray/cells or container.
STRATIFICATION: 120 days cold/moist (5°C), in your fridge is a good spot for this. Then, 6 months warm/moist (20°C), the top of your fridge is a good spot for this. Monitor for mold. Next, a second cold period of 120 days cold/moist (5°C), back in the fridge for this.
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.*
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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.