Overview of Crataegus Ferta Sarg.
Crataegus Ferta Sarg. is a deciduous small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family, subfamily Maloideae. It is commonly known as the fleshy hawthorn or the luscious hawthorn. The plant is native to China and is widespread throughout the country with a maximum elevation of 2800m above sea level.
General Appearance of Crataegus Ferta Sarg.
The plant reaches a height of 4-6 meters and develops a broad crown that can be 5 meters in diameter. Its leaves are oval-shaped and alternate with serrated edges. The leaves are glossy green and become yellowish in the fall. The flowers are white and appear in clustered inflorescences from May to July. The fruit of the plant is a red, fleshy pome that is approximately 1.2 centimeters in diameter.
Common Uses of Crataegus Ferta Sarg.
Crataegus Ferta Sarg. has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for Qi stagnation, food retention, and abdominal bloating. The fruit of the plant is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Additionally, it is used to flavor wines and to make jams and jellies. The plant also has ornamental use and is grown as an attractive feature in gardens and parks.
In conclusion, Crataegus Ferta Sarg. is an attractive deciduous small tree that is native to China. It is famous for its edible fruit, traditional Chinese medicinal uses, and ornamental value.
Light Requirements
Crataegus ferta Sarg. typically grows best in full or partial sunlight. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, excessive exposure to direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorch and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus ferta Sarg. is a hardy plant and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20° Fahrenheit (-29° Celsius) and as high as 100° Fahrenheit (38° Celsius). However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80° Fahrenheit (15.5 to 26.5° Celsius).
Soil Requirements
Crataegus ferta Sarg. requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root damage and stunted growth. It also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Adding organic matter like compost or peat moss to the soil can improve its structure and fertility.
Cultivation methods for Crataegus ferta Sarg.
Crataegus ferta Sarg. is commonly grown in areas with a temperate climate. This plant thrives in a wide range of soils, including clay, loamy, and sandy soils. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It grows well in areas with good sunlight exposure. You can propagate Crataegus ferta Sarg. by seeds and cuttings. However, it is advisable to use cuttings since they take a shorter time to mature and are generally more reliable
Watering needs for Crataegus ferta Sarg.
Crataegus ferta Sarg. requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the climate conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil has proper drainage. During the hot summer months, it might be necessary to water more frequently to keep the soil moist. However, reduce the frequency during winters when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization for Crataegus ferta Sarg.
Crataegus ferta Sarg. requires regular fertilization to thrive and produce healthy blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer during the active growing season and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended amount and frequency. Over-fertilization can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of blossoms, so ensure that you are using the appropriate amount.
Pruning for Crataegus ferta Sarg.
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape, size, and health of the Crataegus ferta Sarg. plant. You can prune it during the late winter or early spring months before it starts producing new growth. Remove any dead, broken, or diseased branches. Remove suckers and water sprouts. You can also shape the plant by selectively pruning certain parts. Ensure that you use sharp pruning tools to prevent damaging the plant.
Propagation of Crataegus Ferta Sarg.
Crataegus ferta Sarg. can be propagated by various means, including seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest way to propagate Crataegus ferta Sarg. is by collecting its seeds and sowing them in the spring or fall, depending on the climatic conditions of the region. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to six weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by cuttings
Softwood cuttings can be taken from Crataegus ferta Sarg. during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be approximately 8-10 cm long and should have several leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in moist, well-draining soil. The cutting should be placed in a shaded area, kept moist, and monitored regularly for rot or disease. After several weeks, the cutting should begin to root and can be gently transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation by layering
Crataegus ferta Sarg. can be propagated by layering, which involves bending a branch or stem of the plant down to the ground and burying it partially in soil. The buried portion of the branch will eventually develop roots, and a new plant will grow. Once the new plant has established roots, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation by grafting
Grafting is a more advanced propagation method that involves attaching a scion from one plant onto the rootstock of another. This method is often used to create plants that have desirable traits, such as disease resistance or specific fruit characteristics. Grafting should only be attempted by experienced gardeners or horticulturists.
Disease Management
C. ferta Sarg. is vulnerable to various diseases that can damage the plant. Some common diseases that affect the plant include fire blight, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and apple scab.
Fire Blight
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that can cause the plant to wilt, turn black, and die. To manage fire blight, prune the affected parts of the plant, and destroy the cuttings. Avoid overhead watering, and fertilize the plant carefully to avoid promoting new growth that is vulnerable to infection.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing, browning, and spotting on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot, prune the affected parts of the plant and remove the fallen leaves. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant to reduce humidity levels that can promote fungal growth.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and other parts of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, prune the affected parts of the plant, and remove the fallen leaves. Increase air circulation by spacing the plant properly and don't overhead water.
Apple Scab
Apple scab is a fungal disease that can cause scabbing and yellow spotting on the leaves of the plant. To manage apple scab, prune the affected parts of the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Improving soil drainage and air circulation around the plant can also help prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Crataegus ferta Sarg. is also vulnerable to various pests like aphids, spider mites and scale insects.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that can cause the shoots and leaves of the plant to curl, yellow, and die. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong water jet occasionally, or insecticidal soaps/miticides. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant because aphids are attracted to lush growth.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can suck the sap of the plant, causing it to look lifeless and dry. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong water jet occasionally or use insecticidal soap/miticides. Increasing humidity levels around the plant can also help prevent spider mites from thriving.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They feed on sap, and can cause branches to weaken and die. To manage scale insects, prune the affected parts of the plant. Use insecticidal soaps/miticides to get rid of the infestation and take care not to over-fertilize plants.
