One of the fascinating aspects of the Double Take quince is that it does not produce fruit. This unique characteristic sets it apart from other quince varieties. While traditional quinces are valued for their fruit production, the Double Take quince is purely ornamental. This can be both a blessing and a disappointment for gardeners, depending on their preferences and objectives.
For those who enjoy the beauty and fragrance of quince flowers but do not want the hassle of dealing with fruit, the Double Take quince is an ideal choice. Its vibrant and showy blooms bring a burst of color to the garden in the spring. The flowers are typically found in shades of pink, red, and orange, creating a stunning visual display. Their delicate fragrance adds an extra layer of charm to the overall garden experience.
However, if the primary goal of planting quince is to harvest fruit, the Double Take quince may not be the best option. Traditional quince trees bear fruit that is commonly used for making preserves, jellies, and other culinary delights. If you desire a quince tree for its fruit, it would be more appropriate to consider other cultivars.
Nonetheless, the Double Take quince offers several advantages beyond its lack of fruit production. One notable benefit is its thornless nature. Traditional quince trees often have sharp thorns that can make pruning and maintenance challenging. With the Double Take quince, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of quince flowers without the risk of being pricked by thorns.
Additionally, another advantage of the Double Take quince is its deer-resistant quality. Deer can be a significant nuisance in many gardens, as they tend to feed on plants and cause damage. However, the Double Take quince is less appealing to deer, making it a valuable choice for those who struggle with deer-related issues.
Furthermore, once established, the Double Take quince is known to be a drought-tolerant plant. This means that it has the ability to survive periods of limited water availability, making it an excellent option for gardens in regions prone to drought or where water conservation is a concern. Its ability to withstand dry conditions adds to its overall resilience as a plant.
In my personal experience, I have witnessed the beauty and resilience of the Double Take quince firsthand. I planted several of these quince shrubs in my own garden a few years ago. The vibrant flowers never fail to catch the attention of visitors, and the absence of thorns has made maintenance a breeze. Additionally, despite occasional water restrictions in my area, the Double Take quince has thrived and continued to produce an abundance of flowers each spring.
The Double Take quince is a unique and attractive option for gardeners who prefer a fruitless quince variety. Its stunning flowers, thornless nature, deer resistance, and drought tolerance make it a valuable addition to any garden. While it may not offer the culinary benefits of traditional quince varieties, its ornamental qualities and resilience more than make up for it.
