Description of Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke is a small deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is commonly referred to as Biltmore hawthorn.
General Appearance
The plant grows to a height of 3 to 6 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 25 cm. The branches of the plant have thorns, which are typically 3 to 5 cm in length. The leaves are simple, deciduous, and are lobed with serrated margins. The leaf size ranges from 3 to 7 cm with a width of 2 to 5 cm. The flowers of the plant are white and grow in clusters. They bloom in the spring and are followed by bright red fruits that persist into the winter.
Origin and Distribution
Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke is native to the southeastern United States, primarily in the Appalachian Mountains. It is commonly found in woodlands, rocky slopes, and along streams.
Uses
The plant has been used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including cardiovascular disorders, digestive problems, and skin conditions. The fruit of the plant is edible and can be used for making jams, jellies, and wine. The tree is grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and bright red fruits.
In conclusion, Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke is a small deciduous tree with thorny branches, lobed leaves, white flowers, and bright red fruits. It is native to the southeastern United States and has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Light Requirements
Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is essential to provide a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. Insufficient light may result in a weakened plant that is susceptible to pests and diseases.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is well adapted to cool temperate climates with moderate temperatures. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but performs best in a temperature range of 60°F to 80°F. Extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can cause damage to the plant. Ensure that the plant is protected from frost during winter.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic (pH range of 4.5 to 6.5). It can tolerate different soil types, including sandy, loam, and clay soils. However, the soil must contain adequate organic matter for optimal growth. Regular soil testing should be carried out to determine nutrient deficiencies and the need for fertilizer applications.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke is a relatively easy plant to grow. It's best grown in areas with moist, well-drained soils that receive full to partial sunlight. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold winters and hot summers. The best time to plant Crataegus biltmoreana is in the fall after the leaves drop or in the early spring before growth begins.
Watering Needs
Crataegus biltmoreana requires regular watering during the growing season. Water the plant one to two times per week, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot and other plant diseases. The plant prefers slightly moist soil, so make sure the water penetrates deep into the root zone.
Fertilization
The plant doesn't require much fertilizer, but adding a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. Use a fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning
Prune Crataegus biltmoreana in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote healthy growth. Also, prune any branches that cross or rub against each other. Thin out the center of the plant to promote better air circulation and sunlight penetration. Avoid pruning too much as it can reduce the plant's blooming potential.
Propagation of Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke
Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke, commonly known as Biltmore Hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the rose family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in open woodland areas and along stream banks. Propagation of this tree can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei can be done through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected from the tree during the fall season, washed, and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds can be sown in a seedbed or in individual seed pots. The seeds should be planted about ¼ inch deep, and the soil should be kept moist. Germination can take up to four months, and the seedlings should be transplanted to larger containers once they have developed their second set of leaves.
Cuttings
Cuttings from Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei can also be used for propagation. A stem cutting about 6 inches long can be taken during the winter when the tree is dormant. The cutting should be taken from a healthy, disease-free tree. The leaves should be removed from the lower one-third of the stem, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting can be planted in well-draining soil mix, and the soil should be kept evenly moist. The cutting should be kept in a humid environment with bright, indirect light. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted to a larger container once it has developed a good root system.
Grafting
Grafting is another method used for propagating Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei. One of the best methods for grafting hawthorn trees is whip and tongue grafting. A scion from the desired tree should be obtained during the dormant season. The scion should be about ¼ to ½ inch in diameter and about six inches long. The rootstock should be a seedling of a hardy hawthorn tree. The scion and the rootstock should be of similar size. Both of them should be cut at 45-degree angles. The cuts should then be joined together, and the union should be wrapped tightly with a grafting tape. The grafted tree should be kept in a moist, humid environment until the union is established.
Disease Management
Some of the common diseases that might affect the Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke include rust, fire blight, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Rust appears as yellow, orange, or brown spots on leaves and causes defoliation. Fire blight causes wilting of twigs, shoots, and branches. Leaf spot appears as small circular lesions on leaves while powdery mildew causes a white powdery substance on leaves.
To manage these diseases, it is important to remove all infected leaves and branches and destroy them. Using fungicides such as copper-based products can help control the spread of diseases. Ensuring that the plant has proper spacing, receives adequate sunlight, and reducing humidity can also help prevent the occurrence and spread of diseases.
Pest Management
Some common pests that might affect the Crataegus biltmoreana Beadle var. stonei (Sarg.) Kruschke include aphids, spider mites, leafhoppers, and scale insects. These pests feed on foliage, sap, and fruits and can cause damage to the plant.
To manage these pests, using insecticidal soaps or oils or a mixture of water and dish soap can help eradicate and control their population. Insects can also be physically removed by spraying water on the plant or manually removing the pests from the plant. Regularly inspecting the plant and pruning out damaged parts can also help prevent pest infestation.
