Overview
Crataegus fontanesiana auct. non (Spach) Steud. is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is a member of the rose family, Rosaceae, and is commonly known as dotted hawthorn.
Appearance
The dotted hawthorn grows up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The plant has a dense, spreading habit and produces thorny branches. Its leaves are glossy green, oval-shaped with serrated edges, and can grow up to 3 inches long. Its fruit is a bright red pome, approximately 0.5 inches in diameter, and is covered in small white dots.
Uses
The dotted hawthorn has been used medicinally by Native Americans to treat heart and digestive problems. Its fruit is also edible and has a sweet, apple-like flavor. The shrub is a popular choice for wild landscaping and is an attractive addition to any garden. It is drought tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions.
Light Requirements
Crataegus fontanesiana is a plant that can tolerate different light conditions. However, it thrives well in full sun, which is at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant can still grow in partial shade, but it might result in fewer flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The Crataegus fontanesiana grows well in areas with a moderate climate. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9, which means it can tolerate temperatures ranging from -29°C to -6°C (-20°F to 15°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should also be fertile and nutrient-rich. If the soil is too heavy, the plant's growth might be stunted. When planting, the soil should be loosened to a depth of at least 18 inches to allow for healthy root development. Crataegus fontanesiana can also grow well in soils that are slightly acidic.
Cultivation
Crataegus fontanesiana can be grown in a range of soils, from sand to loam, but well-drained soils are the most preferable. The plant thrives well in moist and slightly acidic soils with a pH of 6-7.5. It should be given adequate sunlight for proper growth and development.
Watering Needs
Crataegus fontanesiana requires frequent watering, especially during the dry seasons. However, waterlogging should be avoided, as it may lead to root rot. Water should be applied at the base of the plant to allow proper uptake, and the foliage should be kept dry to prevent the development of fungal infections.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized twice a year, during the early spring and late fall. A slow-release fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied at the base of the plant. The fertilizer should be watered in thoroughly to aid in uptake.
Pruning
Pruning of Crataegus fontanesiana should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. The dead and diseased branches should be removed, and the healthy ones should be pruned to promote bushier growth. Overgrown branches should also be cut back to maintain the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Crataegus Fontanesiana
Crataegus fontanesiana is commonly propagated by seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of propagation method depends on various factors such as the purpose of propagation, availability of starting materials, and desired characteristics of the new plants.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the simplest and most natural method of propagating Crataegus fontanesiana. Seeds are harvested from mature fruits, and then sown in the appropriate season and under the right conditions. The seeds can either be sown directly in the field or in containers.
The advantages of propagation by seeds are that it is affordable, and that it results in genetic diversity since the offspring will have a unique combination of genes inherited from both parents. On the other hand, the disadvantage of this method is that it takes longer to produce mature plants, usually up to four years.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a vegetative method of propagation in which a stem, leaf, or root of a plant is cut and planted in soil or another growing medium, where it develops new roots and shoots. Cuttings can be taken from a mature tree and then grafted onto a rootstock to produce a new plant with superior qualities.
The advantages of propagation by cuttings are that it produces plants that are genetically identical to the parent tree, and that it produces mature plants within two years. The disadvantage of this method is that it requires specific tools and skills to take and prepare cuttings properly.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting involves the joining of two different plants, one known as the scion, which provides the desired traits, and the other, known as the rootstock, which provides the root system. Grafting can be performed on both immature and mature trees, making it a versatile method of propagation.
The advantages of propagation by grafting are that it produces a new plant with superior qualities, such as disease resistance, improved yield, or better fruit quality. The disadvantage of this method is that it requires specific skills and tools, and it is not suitable for mass production.
Disease Management
Crataegus fontanesiana is susceptible to various diseases that can impact tree health, such as leaf spots, fire blight, and apple scab. Proper sanitation and cultural practices can significantly reduce the incidence of these diseases. It is essential to keep the tree and surrounding environment clean by removing any fallen leaves, fruits, or debris from the area to minimize the chance of infection and spread of the disease.
Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure to protect the tree from pathogens that cause diseases. Copper-based fungicides are an effective treatment option that can be used in the early season before the disease symptoms appear. Moreover, applying horticultural oil during the tree's dormant period can help prevent spring infection by smothering overwintering pathogens.
Pest Management
Crataegus fontanesiana is vulnerable to several pests, including aphids, borers, and scale insects. Pest infestations can cause significant damage to the tree, such as leaf damage and reduced fruit production. To manage pests, it is important to monitor the tree regularly for any signs of insect infestation.
There several strategies to control insect infestations, including pruning affected branches, the application of insecticides or natural predators such as ladybugs, and using insecticidal soap sprays. Insecticides should be applied as a preventative measure or in the early stages of infestation to achieve effective pest control. It is essential to follow the label's direction when using insecticides to avoid any potential environmental or health risks.
