Overview
Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal, commonly known as the Northern Shagbark Hickory, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States and Canada. It belongs to the Juglandaceae family, which also includes walnuts and pecans.
Appearance
The Northern Shagbark Hickory can grow up to 80 feet in height with a spread of 50 feet. It has a distinct shaggy bark that peels away in long strips, revealing a light-colored inner bark. Its leaves are compound and can reach up to 12 inches in length, composed of five to seven leaflets that are elongated and pointed at the tips. In the fall, the leaves turn a rich yellow color.
Uses
The Northern Shagbark Hickory has a variety of uses. Its wood is highly valued for its strength, durability, and distinctive grain pattern, making it a popular choice for furniture, flooring, and tool handles. The nuts of the hickory tree are also edible and can be used in baking or eaten raw. The inner bark and leaves have been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, particularly for treating coughs and colds.
Aside from its practical uses, the Northern Shagbark Hickory is also valued for its ornamental qualities. Its large size and attractive bark make it a beautiful addition to landscapes and parks.
Overall, the Northern Shagbark Hickory is a versatile and valuable tree that plays an important role in both natural and cultural settings.Light Requirements
Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis typically requires full sun exposure to thrive. Partial shade during the hottest parts of the day may be tolerated, but extended periods of shade can reduce growth and fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
This tree prefers temperate climates and thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9. It can withstand cold temperatures and is suited for areas with a yearly average temperature below 80°F.
Soil Requirements
Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis requires well-draining soils with a pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (6.0-7.5). It is commonly found growing in loamy soils with a high content of organic matter. The tree can tolerate occasional flooding but does not do well in water-logged soils.
Cultivation Methods for Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae- septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal
The Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis, commonly known as the northern shagbark hickory, thrives in soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It is best to cultivate the plant in a location with full sun and a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Avoid planting the tree in areas prone to flooding or stagnant water. Plant the tree in an area where it can grow without any competition for light and nutrients.
Watering Needs for Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal
The northern shagbark hickory requires regular watering to prevent drying out. Water the tree weekly, giving it 1 to 2 inches of water. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Mulching around the base of the tree will help retain moisture in the soil, preventing it from drying out too quickly.
Fertilization for Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal
The northern shagbark hickory requires annual fertilization. Fertilize the tree in early spring before new growth begins. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10. Apply 1 pound of fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the tree and water thoroughly afterward.
Pruning for Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal
The northern shagbark hickory requires minimal pruning. Prune away any diseased, damaged, or dead branches. Prune the tree during the dormant season to promote healthy growth in the spring. Avoid pruning during the summer months, as it may lead to sunscald damage to the tree.
Propagation of Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis
Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis, also known as the Northern Carolina shagbark hickory, can be propagated either by seed or vegetatively.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest and most common method of propagation for this plant is by seed. Seeds can be collected in the fall and begin to germinate in the early spring. The seeds should be planted in a rich soil mix at a depth of about one inch. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged, until the seeds germinate.
It is important to note that Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis has a hard seed coat that must be broken or scarified before planting. This can be done by rubbing the seeds on a rough surface or soaking them in hot water for several hours before planting.
Vegetative Propagation
While less common, Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis can also be propagated vegetatively. This can be done by air layering or through grafting.
Air layering involves making a small cut in the bark of a healthy tree and covering it with moist sphagnum moss. Roots will begin to grow from the cut, and once they are established, the branch can be cut and planted in a new location.
Grafting involves taking a small twig from a healthy tree and grafting it onto the rootstock of another tree. This method is more complicated and requires more skill, but can be a useful method for propagating a specific cultivar or variety of Carya ovata var. carolinae-septentrionalis.
Disease Management
Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal, also known as northern shagbark hickory, is prone to several diseases that can impact its growth and survival. Some of the most common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the leaves to develop irregular brown spots and can eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage anthracnose, remove infected branches and leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Hickory decline: This disease is caused by a number of factors, including fungal infections, pests, and environmental stress. Symptoms include wilting leaves, twig dieback and stunted growth. To manage hickory decline, promote a healthy growing environment by providing proper nutrition, sunlight and water.
- Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease causes root rot and can lead to wilting and death of the plant. To manage phytophthora root rot, avoid overwatering and provide proper drainage.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal may also be susceptible to certain pests that can damage the plant. Some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Hickory shuckworm: This insect pest feeds on developing nuts and can cause reduced nut production. To manage hickory shuckworm, remove and destroy infested nuts and practice good sanitation.
- Hickory bark beetle: This insect pest feeds on the inner bark of the tree, which can lead to branch dieback and tree mortality. To manage hickory bark beetle, keep trees healthy and avoid damage to the bark.
- Eastern tent caterpillar: This insect pest creates unsightly nests on the branches and can cause defoliation. To manage eastern tent caterpillar, prune infested branches and encourage natural predators such as birds.
Overall, proper plant care and timely intervention are key to managing diseases and pests on Carya ovata (P. Mill.) K. Koch var. carolinae-septentrionalis (Ashe) Reveal.
