Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica): when and how to prune

Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica): when to prune it?

JFMAMJJASOND

After flowering, in May. Against a wall, shorten the side shoots again in July.

What else to prune in those months? May · July

Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica): how to prune it?

1. Cut flowered shoots back to a few buds above the old wood.
2. Each year, remove one or two of the oldest branches at the base.
3. Remove dead, crossing and inward-growing branches.
4. Against a wall: in July, cut side shoots back to 4–5 leaves; that is where next year’s flower buds form.
5. If you want plenty of fruit, prune lightly: the fruits grow on the shoots that have flowered.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: May and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
• Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in May and July can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica) flowers in March–April, when it attracts bees.
• In October–November birds eat the fruit: leave some on the plant or on the ground.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Flowering quince
• Barberry
• Blackthorn
• Box (buxus)
• Californian lilac
• Camellia

Plant profile: Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica) · Pruning calendar and basic rules