Overview
Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke is a plant species that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as Wausau thorn or Wausau hawthorn and is native to North America.
Appearance
The Wausau thorn can grow up to 6 meters tall and has a broad, round crown. Its leaves are simple and are 2-5 cm long, with serrated edges. The Wausau thorn has small, white flowers that bloom from May to June and shiny, red fruits that mature in October. The plant’s bark is grayish-brown and has vertical fissures.
Uses
The Wausau hawthorn is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Its red fruits are often used in making jams, jellies, and other desserts. Some Native American tribes use the plant’s bark and leaves as a natural remedy for digestive problems, tuberculosis, and heart-related illnesses. Additionally, the Wausau thorn is useful in controlling soil erosion along riverbanks and hillsides.
Cultivation
The Wausau thorn is a hardy plant that is adaptable to various growing conditions. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and can withstand partial shade to full sun exposure. It is also resistant to common pests and diseases, making it an easy-to-grow plant for novice gardeners. New plants can be propagated from cuttings or by seed, and it is recommended to prune the plant annually to maintain its shape and health.
Light Requirements
Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke thrives best in full sun, but can also grow in partial shade. This plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to allow for proper growth and healthy development.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke is a sturdy plant that can adapt to a variety of temperature ranges. However, it grows best in temperate climates where the temperature ranges from 55 to 85 Fahrenheit (12.77 to 29.44 Celsius).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate different types of soil, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It can also grow in soils with a pH range between 4.5 and 8.3. However, it is advisable to plant this species in a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soils. The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade. To cultivate the plant, you should choose a spot that receives adequate sunlight and has well-draining soil.Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering. During the growing season, it is recommended to water the plant once a week. The frequency of watering can be reduced during the dormant season. It is essential to ensure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization
The plant does not require a lot of fertilizer. You can fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth.Pruning
Pruning the plant will encourage a bushy growth and improve flowering. The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before the growing season starts. You can prune up to one-third of the plant's height and remove any dead or damaged branches. It is recommended to use sharp pruning shears to ensure a clean cut and avoid damaging the plant.Propagation of Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke
Propagation is an important process for the growth and survival of plants. Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke, commonly known as Wausau hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is native to the northern part of the United States and is commonly used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive flowers and foliage. There are several methods of propagating Wausau hawthorn, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods of growing new plants. To propagate Wausau hawthorn from seeds, collect ripe fruits in the fall and remove the flesh. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 6-10 weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted to their final location after they have developed a few sets of leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation involves taking stem cuttings from a mature Wausau hawthorn plant and rooting them in a suitable growing medium. Select healthy stems and make a clean cut just below a node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert it in a rooting medium such as perlite or sand. Keep the cuttings moist and cover them with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. After 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Landscape Propagation
Landscape propagation involves dividing a mature Wausau hawthorn plant and using the divisions to create new plants. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into sections, making sure each section has at least one healthy stem. Replant the divisions in a location with suitable soil and light conditions.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting propagation is a method of propagating Wausau hawthorn plants in which the scion of the plant to be propagated is attached to the rootstock of another plant. The scion is the upper part of the plant that bears the desirable traits, while the rootstock is the lower part of the plant that provides the roots and stem. This method is commonly used to propagate plants that are difficult to grow from seed or cuttings and for creating new hybrid varieties.
Disease Management
Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke, commonly known as Wausau hawthorn, is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, the following diseases can affect the plant:
- Fungal leaf spots: This disease manifests as small, dark-colored circular or irregular-shaped lesions on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected foliage and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, applying a fungicide may be necessary.
- Cedar-hawthorn rust: This disease causes bright orange spots on the leaves and develops large, glistening spores on the undersides. To manage it, all infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. In some cases, applying a fungicide may be necessary.
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease affects the leaves, shoots, and flowers, causing them to wilt and turn black. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected plant parts and applying a copper-based fungicide.
Pest Management
Like most hawthorn species, Crataegus desueta Sarg. var. wausaukiensis Kruschke is susceptible to several pests. The following are some of the common pests that can affect the plant:
- Aphids: These insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl and turn yellow. They can be managed by washing them off with a strong jet of water. In severe infestations, applying a suitable insecticide may be necessary.
- Mites: These pests feed on the undersides of leaves and cause the foliage to turn yellow or bronze. They can be managed by pruning out affected plant parts and applying a horticultural oil spray.
- Japanese beetles: These beetles feed on the foliage, leaving behind skeletonized leaves. Physical removal of beetles can help to reduce their populations. Using a chemical insecticide as a last resort may also be necessary.
