Question From: E. Maloney - New York, United States
Q: How might I avoid fruit drop with my flowering quince this year. It is planted at our residence on a sandy barrier beach within NYC, Breezy Point. The sand is fortified with topsoil and we have not fertilized since planting. It performed poorly last year after we were hammered by a four foot salt water surge during and after Super Storm Sandy but is thriving beautifully presently. We enjoyed a few pieces of fruit the first and second year. I was thrilled to see a generous amount of fruit in early June 2012 but every one dropped one windy day. I have seen a few comments about pruning back to five branches but not everyone mentions this. Thanks for your recommendations.
A: Eileen, I am not a specialist when it comes to trees and as you mention, your flowering quince has been subjected to incredible acts of weather that has put it in great stress. I recommend you contact a local certified arborist - a trained tree doctor, for advice. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
