Description of Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as Fernald's hawthorn, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to North America, specifically in the northeastern region of the United States.
General Appearance
Fernald's hawthorn typically grows up to 6 meters tall and has a spreading, irregular crown. Its leaves are simple, alternately arranged, and have a glossy green color with prominent veins. The tree blooms with small white flowers in spring, which develop into small, red berries with a diameter of about 1 cm.
Uses
Fernald's hawthorn is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive spring flowers and fall foliage. In addition, Native Americans used hawthorn bark, berries, and flowers for medicinal purposes, especially for heart-related ailments. Hawthorn berries have also been used in jam and wine, and the wood is sometimes used as firewood or for making small crafts.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer
Light: This plant requires full sun exposure for best growth and flowering. However, it can also tolerate partial shade.
Temperature: Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer prefers cool temperatures, with an ideal range of 15-25°C (59-77°F). It can tolerate frost and cold temperatures in winter, but extreme hot temperatures during summer can inhibit growth and cause leaf scorching.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soils that are moderately fertile and slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5-6.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogging or highly alkaline soils.
Water: Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer requires regular watering during the growing season to maintain consistent soil moisture. However, it can tolerate moderate drought once established. Avoid over-watering, as it can promote root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilizer: The plant does not require heavy fertilization, but a moderate feeding of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can promote growth and flowering.
Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning can be done to shape the plant, promote more branching, and increase flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer, also known as Fernald's hawthorn, is a small, deciduous tree that is native to North America. It is relatively easy to grow and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay.
When planting Fernald's hawthorn, it is important to dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the tree's root ball. Place the tree in the hole and fill in the soil, making sure that the root flare is at ground level. Water the tree thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture.
Watering Needs
While Fernald's hawthorn is relatively tolerant of dry conditions, it still requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Depending on the soil type and weather conditions, the tree may need to be watered once or twice a week. When watering, it is important to water deeply, saturating the soil to a depth of at least six inches.
Avoid watering the tree too frequently or allowing the soil to become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Additionally, it is important to water the tree at the base, as wetting the foliage can increase the risk of diseases such as leaf spot.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Fernald's hawthorn can help promote healthy growth and increased flowering. It is best to fertilize in the early spring, before new growth appears. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium can be applied around the base of the tree. However, it is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of caring for Fernald's hawthorn. It is best to prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Additionally, any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other should be pruned to encourage healthy growth.
Fernald's hawthorn can also benefit from shaping and thinning pruning to improve its overall structure and appearance. When shaping the tree, it is important to maintain a balanced, open canopy to allow for good air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Propagation of Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer
Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer, commonly known as Fernald's hawthorn, can be propagated through various methods which include:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Fernald's hawthorn is through seed propagation. The seeds of the plant can be collected during the fall season and then stratified for a few months before planting. Stratification is a process in which the seeds are subjected to a cold and moist environment to imitate the natural winter conditions. After stratification, the seeds should be sown in spring in a well-drained potting mix and watered regularly. The seedlings can be transplanted after they have attained a certain size and are strong enough to survive the transplanting process.
Softwood cuttings
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can also be utilized to propagate Fernald's hawthorn. The cuttings should be taken from the current season growth and should be about 6 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting's base dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a potting mix. The container should be covered with a plastic bag or dome to maintain high humidity levels. The cuttings should be kept in a bright area but away from direct sunlight until rooted. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into a bigger container or the garden.
Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method that can be used for Fernald's hawthorn, especially in cases where specific desirable characteristics of the parent plant are to be maintained. The grafting process involves joining a piece of the desired cultivar (scion) onto a compatible plant (rootstock) to form a bond. This method requires a high level of skill and is best left to experienced horticulturists or nursery owners.
Disease Management
Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer is generally not susceptible to many diseases, but it can develop certain diseases under the right conditions. The most common diseases affecting this plant include:
Cedar-Quince Rust
This disease is caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium clavipes, which can infect both hawthorn and cedar trees. It causes yellow spots on the leaves, followed by the development of orange masses on the underside of the leaves. To control this disease, it is important to remove any nearby cedar trees, which serve as a host for the fungus.
Fire Blight
This bacterial disease can cause wilting and blackening of leaves and stems. It can be transmitted from infected plant material, so it is important to immediately remove any infected plant parts and destroy them to prevent further spread of the disease. Copper fungicides can also help to control the disease.
Pest Management
Crataegus brunetiana Sarg. var. fernaldii (Sarg.) Palmer is also not typically affected by pests. However, some common pests that can cause damage to this plant include:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They can cause yellowing of leaves and a fine webbing or stippling on the leaves. To control spider mites, it is important to regularly clean the leaves and ensure adequate humidity levels. In severe infestations, insecticidal soaps or neem oil can help to control the pests.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, immobile pests that can appear as bumps on the leaves and stems. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To control scale insects, it is important to remove and destroy any heavily infested leaves or stems. Horticultural oils or soaps can also be effective in controlling scale insects.
