142 . FRUIT GARDEN. 



three trees planted in the slip or orchard are in general 

 sufficient. In Scotland, the fruit seldom approaches ma- 

 turity, unless favored by a wall. 



In the United States, the quince grows almost every- 

 where, although it does best in a mellow soil retentive of 

 moisture, and in situations partially shaded. The tree 

 may be propagated by grafting, and also by cuttings and 

 layers. It is of slow growth, much branched, and generally 

 crooked : when planted in an orchard the trees may be 

 placed ten or twelve feet apart. 



The following named kinds are best known in the United 

 States : The Pear Quince, so named for its pyriform shape ; 

 the Apple Quince, from its rounder form; the Portugal 

 Quince, the taste of which is less harsh than that which 

 generally distinguishes other quinces. When made into 

 marmalade, its pulp has the property of assuming a beau- 

 tiful purple hue. For these qualities, the fruit is highly 

 esteemed, although the tree is a shy bearer. 



The Mild or Eatable Quince is still less austere than 

 the other kinds. The Orange Quince, besides being a 

 handsome fruit, possesses a fine flavor. The Musk or Pine- 

 apple Quince is very large and beautiful. 



The MEDLAR (Mespilus Germanica) is a native of the 

 south of Europe, but has been naturalized in some parts 

 of the south of England. The varieties worth notice are 

 the Dutch Medlar, with broad leaves ; and the Nottingham 

 Medlar, with narrow leaves ; of these the latter is consider- 

 ed the best. The fruit is gathered in November, and kept 

 till it begins to decay, when it is served up in the dessert, 

 and highly relished by some. The treatment recommend- 

 ed for the quince may be applied to the medlar. 



The trees of this family are very handsome, and deserve 



