Blog

When to Plant Medlar in Maryland

Medlar is a small ornamental tree producing unusual open-ended fruits that must be bletted (softened by frost) before eating. The flavor is complex, like spiced apple butter.

Maryland spans USDA hardiness zones 6a, 7a, 7b, 8a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Share this guide:

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Medlar planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Hover over a county to see details. Click to view planting guide.

Medlar Planting Calendar for Maryland

Zone 6a ~193 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 10 · First frost: October 20 · 193 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 1 May 1 – May 15
Zone 7a ~221 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 25 · First frost: November 1 · 221 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 15 Apr 15 – Apr 29
Zone 7b ~235 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 18 · First frost: November 8 · 235 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 8 Apr 8 – Apr 22
Zone 8a ~255 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 8 · First frost: November 18 · 255 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors March 29 Mar 29 – Apr 12

Growing Tips for Maryland

Plant in well-drained soil. Medlars are self-fertile and need minimal pruning. Harvest after the first frost and allow to soften (blet) indoors for 2-3 weeks before eating.

Share this guide:

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Medlar in Maryland?

Planting dates for Medlar in Maryland depend on your USDA zone. Maryland spans zones 6a, 7a, 7b, 8a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Maryland for planting?

Maryland contains USDA hardiness zones 6a, 7a, 7b, 8a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: May 2026.