Care of the shrub Chaenomeles japonica or Japanese quince |
The genus Chaenomeles, family Rosaceae, comprises 6 species of shrubs native to East Asia. Some species are: Chaenomeles japonica, Chaenomeles sinensis, Chaenomeles speciosa, Chaenomeles cathayensis. Common names: Japanese quince, Maule's quince. This species is native to Japan. They are shrubs or small deciduous trees that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The bright green leaves can be rounded, oval or elongated. The flowers appear before the leaves and can be red, white, yellow or pink. They bloom in spring and occasionally in fall. The scented fruits are edible and are used to prepare jams. Japanese quince is used to form hedges, next to walls, for bushy groups or in large pots. Chaenomeles japonica is an easy-to-grow plant that can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposure; It is a temperate plant that resists cold well. The soil can be a garden substrate with 1/4 of coarse sand for good drainage. The transplant is done at the end of autumn or winter. Water moderately all year round (2 waterings per week) increasing watering a little in summer if it is very hot. Pruning is very important; Prune after flowering by cutting the branches on the second bud from the main branch. Fertilize once a year in autumn with manure and at the end of winter with mineral fertilizer to promote flowering. Maule's quince is not usually attacked by the usual pests and diseases. Japanese quince propagates by cuttings or by layering in spring. |
Images of the shrub Chaenomeles japonica or Japanese quince |