Knowledgebase

Quince Rust #865610

Asked April 23, 2024, 2:30 PM EDT

i have a quince bush that flowers every year but the fruit almost always seems to be attacked by rust as soon as the weather warms. i have only gotten usable fruit from it once in 19 years. Is there a way to treat or prevent the rust from returning every year in a way that will allow the bush to provide edible fruit? i prefer to not use anything that would harm the environment or cause the fruit not be used. Hoping you may have an answer. Thank you.

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

We don't have much information on growing quince in Maryland since it tends to struggle in our climate.  Do you have the edible tree quince or a flowering ornamental variety?

You can follow the guidelines for apple and pear growing and care since they are the same tree family. Under the plant and pest problems tab there are some links for rust and also the Virginia Tech pest management guide.  

You will need to spray a fungicide like copper to help combat the fungal spores but you need to start treatment before you see any signs of rust forming on the leaves or fruit. The Virginia tech publication explains a schedule to follow to help prevent the fruit from contracting it. It isn't a 100% fool proof method but should help to get more viable fruit. You may still have time to apply it and just be sure to follow label directions on frequency.

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily


Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied April 23, 2024, 3:01 PM EDT

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