Kurpfalz Medlar: The Low-Tannin German Variety and the Codling Moth Problem

Kurpfalz is a German medlar cultivar (Mespilus germanica) selected for low tannin content — unlike traditional varieties that require weeks of bletting before becoming palatable, Kurpfalz fruit can be eaten shortly after harvest or even straight from the tree when fully ripe. Hardy to -20°C, tolerant of a wide range of soils, and well-suited to Sakarya's humid four-season climate. The main challenge: Cydia pomonella (codling moth) damages most of the crop. Control methods: pheromone traps from April, collect fallen fruit daily, kaolin clay spray, spinosad-based biological insecticide at peak flight. Harvest: late October–November after first light frosts; short bletting of 1–2 weeks in a cool airy space.