Quince Province BA 29C is a semi-dwarf rootstock cultivar bred to support European pear and quince production in zones 5 through 9. Unlike ornamental or fruiting quince varieties, this rootstock isn't grown for its own fruit but rather as the foundation for grafted pear and quince trees, creating more manageable 10 to 15 foot specimens than standard rootstocks allow. Sourced through Raintree Nursery, it represents a thoughtfully selected genetic line chosen for its disease resistance, wet-soil tolerance, and early bearing characteristics. The rootstock arrives as pencil-sized whips approximately 1/4 inch in diameter, ready for grafting with compatible scion material.
—
Moderate
5-9
?in H x ?in W
—
Low
Hover over chart points for details
This rootstock delivers exceptional disease resistance, specifically bred to resist crown gall, pear decline, and nematodes, which makes it invaluable for growers in regions where these problems plague standard rootstocks. Its remarkable tolerance of wet soils opens possibilities in poorly drained sites where other quince rootstocks struggle. The semi-dwarf habit yields a more manageable tree size without sacrificing yield potential, and it produces fruit preciously and abundantly once the grafted scion reaches maturity.
Quince Province BA 29C serves exclusively as a rootstock for grafting compatible European pear cultivars and quince scions. It is not grown as a fruit-bearing plant in its own right. Nurseries and advanced home gardeners use it to create semi-dwarf pear and quince trees that mature at manageable heights while maintaining commercial or home-garden productivity.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
If starting from seed, stratify according to standard quince protocols and sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Maintain soil temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for germination. Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before transplanting outdoors.
Transplant rootstock whips into field or nursery beds after the last hard frost, when soil is workable. Space 4 to 6 feet apart in rows to allow air circulation and future grafting access. Ensure soil drains adequately, though this rootstock tolerates moisture better than most. Graft compatible pear or quince scions in early spring or summer once rootstock diameter reaches approximately 1/4 inch or larger.
Minimal pruning is needed on the rootstock itself before grafting; allow a single strong leader to develop. After successful grafting, follow pruning protocols appropriate to the scion variety grafted onto the rootstock, as the semi-dwarf nature of BA 29C will naturally constrain total tree size.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.
“Quince Province BA 29C emerges from the Raintree Nursery selection program, part of the broader modern effort to develop rootstocks that balance vigor control with disease resilience. While specific breeding details remain proprietary, the cultivar reflects decades of horticultural refinement aimed at creating more resilient alternatives to European pear rootstock standards. Its selection as a named cultivar indicates recognition of superior field performance across multiple growing regions and seasons.”