Overview
Acer negundo L. ssp. interius (Britt.) A.& D. Löve, commonly known as the boxelder, is a tree species in the family Sapindaceae. It is native to North America, in particular, to the eastern and central regions of the United States and Canada.
Description
The boxelder is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 30-50 feet (9-15 meters) and a width of 20-30 feet (6-9 meters). The bark is gray or gray-brown, with furrows and ridges that create a characteristic diamond pattern. The leaves are compound, with three to seven leaflets, and are arranged opposite each other on the stems. The leaflets have blade margins that are serrated, and the veins are prominent. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow or yellow-green, sometimes with a reddish tint. The fruit is a samara that measures about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, with two wings that form a V-shape.
Common Names
Boxelder is also commonly known as ash-leaved maple, Manitoba maple, and negundo maple. The name "boxelder" comes from the resemblance of the wood to that of boxwood and the fact that the tree is considered a weed or pest by some people.
Uses
The wood of boxelder is soft, light, and not durable, making it unsuitable for many commercial uses. However, it is sometimes used for pulpwood, particleboard, and fuel. The sap of the tree can be used to make maple syrup, although it has a lower sugar content and a more pronounced taste than other maple species. The tree is also sometimes planted as an ornamental, as it has a striking appearance in the fall with its yellow leaves and samaras.
Light Requirements
Acer negundo L. ssp. interius thrives in areas with partial to full sun exposure. The plant has adapted to tolerate different light intensities, making it capable of growing in areas with varying light levels. It can grow in both open spaces with abundant sunlight and in shaded areas where it can receive filtered or dappled sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is hardy and can thrive in a wide range of temperature conditions. However, it prefers cooler temperatures and can withstand frosty winters. Young trees can be sensitive to extreme cold and need protection during winters until they are established. The ideal temperature range for the growth of Acer negundo L. ssp. interius is between 12 to 24°C (53.6 to 75.2°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in different soil types, from sandy to clayey and loamy. However, it requires well-draining soils to prevent waterlogging, which may cause root rot. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 8.0, which is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Acer negundo L. ssp. interius can tolerate occasional drought, but it prefers soils with consistent moisture levels. It grows well in soils with high organic content, which helps to retain moisture and nutrients.
Cultivation Methods for Acer negundo L. ssp. interius
Acer negundo L. ssp. interius, commonly known as Box elder, is a hardy and adaptable plant species that thrives in a variety of soil and climatic conditions. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded areas and well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Younger plants require more care and attention during the establishment period, including regular watering and protection from pests.
Watering Needs for Acer negundo L. ssp. interius
Box elder trees require moderate watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, affecting the plant's overall health. It is advisable to check the moisture content of the soil frequently and water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.
Fertilization of Acer negundo L. ssp. interius
Box elder trees require regular fertilization to maintain a healthy and vibrant appearance. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant species. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, between spring and fall, following the manufacturer's instructions for quantity and frequency of application.
Pruning Acer negundo L. ssp. interius
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and health of Box elder trees, removes dead or diseased branches, and promotes vigorous growth. It is best to prune the plant during the dormant season between late fall and early spring to avoid stressing the plant. The branches should be cut at a 45-degree angle, making sure to avoid leaving stubs that could damage the plant.
Propagation of Acer negundo L. ssp. interius
Acer negundo L. ssp. interius, commonly known as the boxelder maple, is a popular tree that is often grown for its ornamental value and is known for its hardy nature. While these trees are often propagated through seeds, there are several other methods that can be used for their propagation.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest and most common method of propagating Acer negundo L. ssp. interius is through its seeds. Mature seeds are usually collected from the tree during the fall season. Once the seeds are collected, they can be planted in containers or trays filled with moist soil. It is recommended to use a well-drained soil mix to ensure good drainage for the seeds. Water the seeds regularly and keep them in a warm, sunny spot. It usually takes a few days for the seeds to germinate, but they will eventually produce a tiny root and stem.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another method of propagating Acer negundo L. ssp. interius is through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the summer or early fall, when the branches are still flexible. The cutting should be around 6 inches long and made using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Remove all the leaves from the bottom third of the cutting, and then dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Place the cutting into a container filled with soil mix and water it regularly. After a few weeks, new roots will begin to develop and the cutting can be transplanted into the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation through layering is another possible method for Acer negundo L. ssp. interius. To propagate using this method, find a low-hanging branch of the tree and bend it towards the ground. Make a small cut through the underside of the branch where it meets the soil, and then cover the cut in soil and secure it in place. Water the layered branch regularly and wait for the roots to develop. In a few months, the layered branch can be separated from the parent tree and planted in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Acer negundo L. ssp. interius (Britt.) A.& D. Löve
Acer negundo L. ssp. interius (Britt.) A.& D. Löve, commonly known as Boxelder Maple, is a relatively resilient species that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, like any other plant species, Boxelder Maple is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage the plant's health and affect its aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect Acer negundo L. ssp. interius and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Verticillium Wilt - Verticillium Wilt is a fungal disease that can cause leaves to yellow and wilt, typically starting from the bottom of the tree. Unfortunately, the disease is challenging to manage as once it is in the soil, it can persist for years. One way to manage the disease is to maintain soil health by avoiding waterlogging and providing adequate nutrition. Pruning infected branches and disposing of them immediately can prevent the spread of the disease to other parts of the plant.
Canker Stain - Canker Stain is a fungal disease that attacks the bark of the tree, causing cankers and decay. The disease can be diagnosed by the presence of brown streaks in the sapwood. Prevention is the best way to manage canker stain; one can avoid wounding the bark during pruning or other gardening activities because the disease enters through wounds. Ensure that any tools used are clean and disinfected regularly. Regular inspection of trees can help identify emerging infections and prompt control measures.
Pests
Boxelder Bugs - Boxelder Bugs are common pests that can cause defoliation, weakening of the tree, and disfigurement of the plant. They are usually black with red lines and feed on the leaves and seeds of the plant, causing aesthetic damage. The best way to manage Boxelder Bugs is to prune affected branches and dispose of them immediately. One can apply a trap crop of another plant species to attract Boxelder Bugs away from Acer negundo L. ssp.
Cottony Maple Scale - Cottony Maple Scale is an insect that can cause leaf drop, stunting, and tree decline. The scale insect excretes a sticky substance that can make it challenging to detect them. They typically take up residence at the base of the leaves, making early identification crucial. One way to manage Cottony Maple Scale is to prune infected branches, remove debris from around the tree, and apply horticultural oils to suppress the insect's spread.
In conclusion, Acer negundo L. ssp. interius is a relatively tough plant species. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Proper garden maintenance practices such as regular inspection, pruning, maintaining soil health, and adequately fertilizing can go a long way in keeping the plant healthy and free of diseases and pests.
