Nisperos are often among the undiscovered fruit tree varieties among foreign garden owners on Mallorca.
The pome fruit, originally from China, is considered to be very healthy due to its numerous properties.
In Germany, the rather inconspicuous yellow-orange fruits of the "Wollmispel" are little known. This is due to their origin. Nisperos originally come from China and thrive almost exclusively in sunny latitudes. For this reason, Spain is considered the largest producer of the far-eastern pome fruit in Europe. The small, round fruits also grow in many places on Mallorca in their ever-growing orchards. But mostly only in the gardens of locals. The loquat is considered to be extremely healthy due to its high vitamin C content. It is also said to have a blood and kidney cleansing and cholesterol-lowering effect. Nisperos are easy to digest and are recommended for cardiovascular disorders due to their high pectin content. However, the fruits can only be eaten when they are really ripe. Only then do they develop a sweet aroma. If, on the other hand, the fruit is harvested too early, it tastes sour.
A sunny spot for the location
Wood medlar trees are planted in the fall like other fruit trees on the island. A sunny to semi-shady, rain- and wind-protected spot in the garden is suitable. Either in a pot or directly in the ground, where the trees can reach a height of up to 5 meters. The plants need nutrient-rich soil to grow, but fertilizers should still be used very sparingly when growing and caring for them.
Incidentally, this also applies to other types of fruit in the garden.
Plants and trees can only absorb a limited amount of additional nutrients. Too much fertilizer overtaxes the plants. The result is usually a shorter lifespan", says Xisco Mulet, owner and operator of the specialist gardening company "Ca´n Juanito" in Palma's suburb of Son Ferriol.
Whether and how well a fruit tree blossoms and thrives in Mallorca - be it loquat, orange, lemon, apple, plum, cherry or peach - essentially depends on three factors: Sunlight, soil conditions and water quality. What many amateur gardeners on Mallorca do not know, however, is that all three conditions vary on the island depending on the location and area. For this reason, Mulet recommends seeking extensive advice from the nursery before making a purchase. Nispero trees are relatively easy to care for, but many mistakes can be made, especially when planting and pruning.
Further information:
Garden center Can Juanito
Carretera de Manacor, km 6.6
Son Ferriol - open daily
www.canjuanito.com
