Overview of Crataegus ingens Beadle
Crataegus ingens Beadle or the Large Washington Hawthorn is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the southeastern regions of the United States.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names such as Large Washington Hawthorn, Bigfruit Hawthorn, and Fleshy Hawthorn. It is also sometimes called the Mayhaw.
Appearance
The Large Washington Hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters high. It has a dense and rounded crown with numerous branches that bear thorny twigs. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color with shades of orange, red, and purple in autumn.
The flowers of the Large Washington Hawthorn are white or pink in color and bloom in May. They are clustered together in groups of 5 to 25 and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of the plant is a large, bright red, sweet, and fleshy berry that resembles a small apple. The fruit is edible and often used to make jams and jellies.
Uses
The Large Washington Hawthorn is widely used in landscaping and is popular for its attractive foliage, flowers, and berries. It is also used as an ornamental plant in parks and gardens. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat heart diseases, digestive problems, and fever. The bark, leaves, and fruits of the plant contain compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, Crataegus ingens Beadle is a beautiful and versatile plant with numerous uses. It is a great addition to any garden or landscape and has valuable medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus ingens Beadle plant typically grows well in areas that have plenty of sunlight. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least six hours of sunlight daily to encourage healthy growth. When planting the plant, it is best to choose a location that is not shaded as this can cause the plant to grow weakly.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures. It grows well when temperatures range between 15°C – 20°C (60°F – 68°F). It is essential to make sure that during winter, the plant doesn't fall below 0°C (32°F) as this can cause the plant to die. The Crataegus ingens Beadle plant grows best in a climate with mild temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus ingens Beadle plant grows well in soil that is well-drained and moist. Sandy soils and soils that have a good amount of loam are ideal for this plant species. Additionally, the soil should have a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. When planting, it is essential to add organic materials to the soil to improve fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus ingens Beadle is a hardy plant and tolerates a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. The ideal pH range for the plant is between 5.5 and 7.5. You can propagate Crataegus ingens using seed, cuttings, or grafting. Seed propagation is the most common method, and you can sow seeds in the spring or fall. When planting, make sure to space them out by at least 3 feet.
Watering Needs
Crataegus ingens Beadle requires moderate watering, about once every week. The plant tolerates drought, but it won't grow well if it's water-stressed for long periods. When watering, make sure to soak the soil deeply to encourage the roots to penetrate deep into the soil. During hot or dry periods, increase the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
The plant needs to be fertilized regularly, but not excessively. Over-fertilizing can burn the roots, damaging the plant. You can use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer once every 4-5 weeks. In late fall, before the plant goes dormant, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning Crataegus ingens Beadle is necessary to regulate its size, stimulate new growth, and maintain its shape. You should prune the plant in late fall or early spring when it's still dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches, suckers, or water sprouts. Cut back any unruly growth to promote thicker branching. Regular pruning results in a fuller, healthier Crataegus ingens Beadle.
Propagation of Crataegus ingens Beadle
Crataegus ingens Beadle, commonly known as the Mississippi hawthorn, is a small tree or large shrub native to southeastern United States. It is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and propagate. There are several methods of propagation that can be used, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for growing Crataegus ingens Beadle. The seeds can be collected from the ripe fruit of the plant in the fall. Before planting, the seed should be stratified by placing in a moist, cool environment for several weeks. To plant the seeds, sow them in a well-draining soil mixture and cover with a light layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm location until the seeds germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Crataegus ingens Beadle. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the current year's growth in late spring to early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded location until the cuttings root.
Sucker Propagation
Crataegus ingens Beadle can also be propagated by suckers. In the spring, remove a sucker from the base of the parent plant using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Pot the sucker in a well-draining soil mixture and keep the soil moist and in a shaded location until it establishes.
Whichever method of propagation is used, it is important to keep the new plants in a protected area until they are well-established. Once established, Crataegus ingens Beadle is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that will thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus ingens Beadle
Crataegus ingens Beadle, commonly known as the big hawthorn, is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Proper management of these issues is vital to ensure a healthy plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Cedar hawthorn rust: This fungal disease causes yellowing leaves, defoliation, and cankers on stems. To manage it, prune infected branches and use a fungicide.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease presents as white powdery spots on leaves. Prune infected areas and use a fungicide to prevent its spread.
Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes wilting and blackening of leaves, stems, and flowers. Cut and dispose of infected branches and use a bactericide to treat the plant.
Pests
Hawthorn lace bug: These insects cause yellow or white spots on leaves, which can reduce photosynthesis and cause leaf drop. Manage them by pruning infested branches and using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Hawthorn psyllids: These insects cause deformities on leaves and can stunt plant growth. To manage them, prune infected branches and use insecticides.
Hawthorn leaf beetle: These beetles eat hawthorn leaves and can defoliate the plant. Manage them by handpicking and disposing of them or using insecticides.
Regularly inspecting and monitoring your Crataegus ingens Beadle for signs of diseases and pests is crucial to managing these issues effectively. Pruning infected areas and using pesticides or fungicides when necessary can help keep your plant healthy and beautiful.
