Overview
Celtis smallii Beadle is a species of tree in the family Cannabaceae, native to the United States. This plant is commonly referred to as deciduous hackberry or small's hackberry. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a spreading crown that creates a dense shade beneath it. The Celtis smallii Beadle tree is a common resident of the eastern edge of the Great Plains, from Texas to North Dakota, and other areas in the south-central United States.Appearance
The Celtis smallii Beadle tree is a deciduous tree that has a short trunk and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The bark of this tree is grayish and has corky ridges that create shallow furrows. The leaves of this tree are simple and ovate, with a serrated edge, and can grow up to 12 cm long. The flowers of the Celtis smallii Beadle tree are small and insignificant and are followed by small, oval-shaped, edible fruits that turn yellow to brownish-red when they mature.Uses
The Celtis smallii Beadle tree has several uses, both for wildlife and humans. The fruits of this tree are an important food source for many birds, such as the American robin, cedar waxwing, and mockingbird. They are also consumed by mammals, including deer, raccoons, and squirrels. The fiber of the tree's bark was traditionally used by Native Americans to make ropes and baskets. The wood of the Celtis smallii Beadle tree is hard and durable and is used for making furniture, tool handles, and fence posts.Cultivation
The Celtis smallii Beadle tree can be grown in a wide range of soil types, including acid, alkaline, and neutral soils, as well as sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It thrives in full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. This tree is easy to care for but may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. It is drought-tolerant once established and can tolerate moderate levels of salt. Although it is native to the United States, the Celtis smallii Beadle tree is not commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes and can be difficult to locate in nurseries.Growth conditions of Celtis smallii Beadle
Light: Celtis smallii requires full sunlight to grow properly. It thrives in areas where it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. If you plan to grow Celtis smallii indoors, make sure to place it near a sunny window.
Temperature: Celtis smallii is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9, where temperatures range from 0°F to 30°F. However, it can also tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 100°F.
Soil: Celtis smallii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged soil. If your soil is heavy clay, consider adding sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Water: Celtis smallii requires regular watering, especially during the first year of growth. However, it is drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply, once or twice a week, instead of frequent shallow watering. Avoid watering the trunk as it can lead to rot. Mulching around the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilizer: Celtis smallii does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to weak growth and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
Pruning: Celtis smallii does not require frequent pruning. However, you can prune to remove dead or damaged branches or to shape the plant. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring.
Cultivation methods for Celtis smallii Beadle
Celtis smallii Beadle, commonly called the small-leaved hackberry, is a deciduous tree that is native to the southeastern United States. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can grow in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. The tree grows well in full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of drought conditions, making it an excellent choice for areas with low rainfall.
Watering needs for Celtis smallii Beadle
The small-leaved hackberry thrives in moist soil conditions, but it can also tolerate periods of dryness. Water newly planted trees regularly until they establish a healthy root system. Afterward, you can reduce the frequency of watering to once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious not to flood the tree's roots.
Fertilization of Celtis smallii Beadle
Celtis smallii Beadle is a low-maintenance tree that rarely requires fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizer in the early spring to encourage new growth. Avoid using fertilizers that are high in phosphorus or potassium, as these can harm the tree's roots and leaves.
Pruning of Celtis smallii Beadle
Pruning helps Celtis smallii Beadle maintain its shape and promotes healthy growth. You can prune the tree during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches first, and then focus on trimming back any crossed or rubbing branches. You can also prune the tree to control its height and spread, but avoid cutting back more than a third of the tree's branches at any given time.
Propagation of Celtis smallii Beadle
There are several ways to propagate Celtis smallii Beadle, a small deciduous tree commonly known as small's hackberry. One of the most common methods is through seed propagation.
Seed propagation
Celtis smallii Beadle produces small, dark purple berries that contain seeds. To propagate the plant through seed, collect ripe berries and remove the pulp from the seeds. Soaking the seeds in water for several hours can make it easier to remove the pulp. Dry the seeds in a cool, dark place, and then store them in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for about 90 days. This process, known as stratification, is essential to break seed dormancy.
After 90 days, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds regularly, but do not overwater, as the excess moisture can lead to fungal growth and rotting. Seed germination usually takes about 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Cuttings propagation
An alternative propagation method is through cuttings. Take cuttings from Celtis smallii Beadle in the spring, when the tree is actively growing. Select healthy branches that are about 6-8 inches long, and cut them just below a bud node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to promote root growth. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone, and plant it in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the container with a plastic bag to retain moisture and place it in a well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and roots should start to form in about 4-6 weeks.
Once the roots are well-established, transplant the cuttings into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Disease Management for Celtis smallii Beadle
Celtis smallii Beadle, commonly known as small hackberry, is a hardy plant that can resist several diseases if the growing conditions are optimal. However, some diseases may affect the plant's health, such as:
- Anthracnose: It's a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves and fruits, causing them to fall off. To manage anthracnose, prune affected branches and leaves and dispose of them safely away from the plant. Apply fungicides, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Powdery Mildew: It's a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on leaves, flowers, and fruits. To manage powdery mildew, prune affected parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides, if deemed necessary.
- Root Rot: It's a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to rot and die. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering the plant, improve drainage, and ensure the plant grows in well-drained soil.
Pest Management for Celtis smallii Beadle
Some pests may feed on Celtis smallii Beadle, causing damage to the plant's leaves and fruits. Here are some common pests to watch out:
- Spider Mites: They are small arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant's leaves with water regularly, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and ensure the plant receives enough water.
- Scale Insects: They are small insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking the plant's sap and causing leaf drop. To manage scale insects, prune affected parts, scrub the plant with a soft-bristle brush and soapy water, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: They are the larvae of moths or butterflies that feed on the plant's leaves and fruits, causing defoliation. To manage caterpillars, inspect the plant regularly and manually remove them, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or spinosad insecticides.
