Chaenomeles, also known as the Flowering Quince, is a vibrant and versatile shrub. Its brilliant blossoms, which range from fiery reds to soft pinks, create a stunning display in your garden. The Chaenomeles are perfect for any gardener looking to add a burst of colour and beauty to their outdoor space.
Planting Calendar
Chaenomeles are best planted in spring or autumn.
Prepare
Chaenomeles is a hardy, thorny deciduous shrub that bears vivid flowers in shades of delicate pink, rich vermilion, coral red and white which are borne on bare branches in late winter and spring. It makes a great hedge due to it tangled and twiggy growth habit. Plant in garden beds for pops of colour or in pots on he patio where they can be enjoyed.
Position
Chaenomeles can be grown in either full sun to light shade.
Soil
When planted into the ground Chaenomeles prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Pollination
Flowers are pollinated by bees.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from spring through to the end of autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Mulching
Mulching around plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Replenish mulch each spring.
Spraying
Chaenomeles is generally pest free so should not need spraying.
Pruning
Plants bloom on old growth, prune to shape after flowering to encourage growth of flowering spurs. Remove any suckers that come up from under the ground.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects
Expert Tip
After flowering small fruit that are green/yellow are produced, although they are edible they are very bitter, so are best used to make jams and jellies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chaenomeles produce edible fruit?
Chaenomeles produce small, hard fruits that are edible but very tart. They are often used in jellies, preserves, and baking rather than eaten fresh.
Are Chaenomeles prone to any pests or diseases?
Chaenomeles are relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to aphids, scale, and fire blight. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment can help manage these issues.
How do I prune Chaenomeles?
Plants bloom on old growth, prune to shape after flowering to encourage growth of flowering spurs. Remove any suckers that come up from under the ground.
When is the best time to plant Chaenomeles?
The best time to plant Chaenomeles is in autumn or early spring. This allows the plant to establish roots before the growing season.
How often should I water Chaenomeles?
Water newly planted Chaenomeles regularly until established. Once established, they are drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods.