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When to Plant Medlar in Rhode Island

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.

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

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 Rhode Island

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 6b ~205 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 3 · First frost: October 25 · 205 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 24 Apr 24 – May 8
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

Growing Tips for Rhode Island

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Medlar in Rhode Island?

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

What zone is Rhode Island for planting?

Rhode Island contains USDA hardiness zones 6a, 6b, 7a. 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: April 2026.