How to Grow Quince

Updated June 2026

A cool-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Quince is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Quince is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the quince page for exact timing.

Varieties

Pineapple, Aromatic cooking quince (nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 13.1 ft between plants.
Sowing: sow about 8 in deep.
Water: roughly 1.3 gal per plant every 4 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Codling moth and Birds. In humid regions, Fire blight and Leaf blight can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Quince is usually ready to harvest within roughly 49 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant quince where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →