Overview of Crataegus impar Beadle plant
Crataegus impar Beadle is a deciduous shrub species in the family Rosaceae that is native to North America, particularly in the eastern regions of the United States. Commonly known as the Devon hawthorn, it thrives in zones 4 to 7 and reaches a height of up to 12 feet.
General appearance of Crataegus impar Beadle plant
The Devon hawthorn has a rounded shape with ascending branches and spiny twigs. Its leaves are lobed, dark green, and alternate on the stems. During spring, the plant blooms clusters of fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees. These flowers are eventually replaced by spherical red fruits that are approximately half an inch in diameter.
Uses of Crataegus impar Beadle plant
The Devon hawthorn is an ornamental plant popularly used in landscaping due to its beautiful flowers and fruits. It grows well in sunny areas with moist, well-drained soil and is often planted as a hedge or screen. Additionally, the plant's fruits are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and wines. The hawthorn berries are also widely used in traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases due to their high antioxidant content.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus impar Beadle plant prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown in a shady location, the plant might not bloom as well, and the leaves might not be as robust as the ones grown in the sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows in areas with a temperate climate, and its growth conditions vary depending on the region. Generally, the Crataegus impar Beadle plant can tolerate a temperature range of 15°C to 25°C during the growing season. It has also been noted to survive temperatures as low as -20°C during winter dormancy.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus impar Beadle plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils. However, the soil must be well-draining with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant also prefers a soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or manure. The addition of phosphorus, calcium, and potassium-rich fertilizers can also aid in the plant's growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus impar Beadle, also known as the oxheart hawthorn, is a hardy plant species that thrives well in moist, well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It prefers full sun to part shade and can withstand drought conditions once established. The plant is best propagated by sowing seeds in fall or by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
Watering Needs
The oxheart hawthorn requires moderate watering throughout the growing season to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Newly planted trees need more water to establish their roots, and they should be watered deeply at least once a week. During dry spells, increase the frequency of watering to keep the soil consistently moist.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for oxheart hawthorn trees, but it can boost growth and ensure the plant receives the necessary nutrients. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 can be applied in spring before new growth emerges. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before the tree begins to bud. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as those that cross and rub against each other. Thin out the center of the tree by cutting back some of the older wood to encourage new growth. Avoid over-pruning, as this can reduce flowering and alter the tree's natural shape.
Propagation of Crataegus impar Beadle
Crataegus impar Beadle is commonly known as the beaked hawthorn and is a flowering plant species native to North America. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be done through various methods.
1. Seed Propagation
This method involves the collection of fresh seeds from the beaked hawthorn plant. The seeds should be cleaned and sown in a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist. Germination should occur within 3-4 weeks at room temperature.
Once germinated, the seedlings should be grown in a sunny location with moderate watering until they reach a height of 6-8 inches. They can then be transplanted into their permanent location.
2. Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through stem cuttings is also a viable option for the beaked hawthorn. Softwood cuttings should be taken in early summer, while hardwood cuttings can be taken during winter dormancy.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix with moderate moisture. The pot should then be covered with plastic to maintain humidity. Roots should develop in 3-4 weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted into its permanent location after a few months of growth.
3. Grafting Propagation
Grafting propagation is a more advanced method that involves joining a piece of a beaked hawthorn plant with a rootstock of a related species. This method ensures that the new plant has the same qualities as the original plant and is often used for commercial propagation.
The beaked hawthorn plant can be propagated through grafting using a dormant scion of the plant and a suitable rootstock. The two parts should be joined, and the graft union should be covered with grafting tape. The plant should be grown in a protected environment and monitored for successful grafting.
Overall, beaked hawthorn propagation can be done through seed, cutting, and grafting methods and is a relatively simple process that can be done by experienced gardeners or professionals.
Disease Management for Crataegus impar Beadle
Crataegus impar Beadle, commonly known as Dwarf Hawthorn, is a plant that can be affected by various fungal diseases. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant:
- Leaf Blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Diplocarpon mespili and is characterized by small circular spots on the leaves that eventually merge, forming larger spots. The affected leaves turn yellow and fall off prematurely. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the affected branches, provide proper air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
- Cedar Rust: This disease is caused by the fungus Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae and is characterized by yellow-orange spots on the leaves that turn brown and fall off. The disease can also affect the fruit, causing them to deform. To manage this disease, it is important to remove the nearby cedar trees, as they are an alternate host for the fungus.
- Fruit Rot: This disease is caused by the fungi Botryosphaeria spp. and Colletotrichum spp. and is characterized by brown spots on the fruit that eventually rot. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid wounding the fruit during harvest and handling and to remove infected fruit immediately.
Pest Management for Crataegus impar Beadle
Crataegus impar Beadle can also be affected by a few pests that can cause damage. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and the formation of sticky honeydew. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing discoloration and a web-like appearance on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spraying the plant with water to increase humidity and using an insecticidal soap or neem oil may be effective.
- Japanese Beetles: These beetles feed on the leaves of the plant, causing skeletonization and defoliation. To manage Japanese beetles, it is recommended to handpick them off the plant or use a pheromone trap to attract and kill them.
