Origin and Common Names
Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. is a plant species that is native to the eastern part of North America. It is commonly known as the Lennox hawthorn.
Appearance
Lennox hawthorn is a small deciduous tree that typically grows up to 4 meters tall. It has a rounded crown with a trunk diameter of 15-20 centimeters. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and scaly as the tree ages. The leaves are dark green and shiny with a lobed shape and serrated edges. The flowers are small and white with a pleasant scent, and they bloom in clusters during the spring. The fruit looks like a small apple or pome, and it is red to dark red in color.
Uses
Lennox hawthorn is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance. It is also used for its medicinal properties. The fruit and leaves of the tree have been traditionally used for centuries to treat heart-related ailments, such as high blood pressure and angina. These parts of the plant are rich in flavonoids, which are known to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Lennox hawthorn fruit can also be used to make jellies and jams, and it is sometimes used as a natural food colorant.
Light Requirements
Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. typically requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and development, meaning the plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is relatively adaptable and can survive in temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter to 120 degrees Fahrenheit during warm summer months.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in soil with good drainage properties and a slightly acidic pH level between 5.0 and 6.5. The soil should also have a high organic matter content and should be rich in nutrients. The plant can grow in both sandy and clay soils, but it prefers loamy soils that consist of a mixture of sand, silt, and clay.
Watering Requirements
Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. requires regular and consistent watering, especially during the growing season when the soil should be kept continuously moist. However, it is important not to overwater, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilizer Requirements
Regular fertilizer applications, using a balanced slow-release fertilizer, can help to maintain the health and vitality of Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. It is important to pay attention to the manufacturer's directions and not over-fertilize. Over-fertilizing can lead to an excess of growth, weak stems, and a susceptibility to disease and pests.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. commonly referred to as the Lemington hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 8 meters high. It is relatively hardy and can thrive in a wide range of soil types, as long as the soil is well-drained. Therefore, it is imperative to prepare the planting hole adequately beforehand.
The plant prefers full sun exposure, with some shade during the hottest part of the day. It is essential to select an appropriate planting site that meets these needs. Generally, it thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5–9.
Watering Needs
Like most plants, Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. requires sufficient water to grow and thrive. During the dry season, regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moistened, but not water-logged, to prevent root rot. The shrub should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently if the soil is draining quickly or if the plant exhibits signs of dehydration, such as wilted leaves.
It is important to note that over-watering can be catastrophic for Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. as it can lead to various problems such as crown rot or root rot. Therefore, it is always necessary to check the soil moisture level before watering the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial in the growth and maintenance of Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. Incorporate a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 in early spring, before the plant begins to grow. One should also apply a slow-release fertilizer in mid-summer to sustain the development of the plant throughout its life cycle.
The amount of fertilizer needed depends on the size of the plant and the quality of your soil. Be sure to follow the fertilizer label instructions carefully to prevent nutrient burn or fertilizer shock
Pruning
Pruning is a crucial part of maintaining and shaping Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. One needs to prune to keep it healthy and promote optimal growth, flower production, and foliage development. The best time to prune the shrub is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Cut away any dead, diseased, or damaged wood with sharp and sterile pruning shears. Be sure to promote airflow by removing overcrowded branches or crossing branches as this can lead to a diminished quality of flower and fruit production. Maintain the desired shape by cutting the remaining branches to the required length and shape.
With the appropriate cultivation and care, Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. is a show-stopping beauty that is sure to delight any gardener or homeowner.
Propagation of Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg.
Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg., commonly known as the Lemington hawthorn, can be propagated by various methods including seed, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Crataegus lemingtonensis is through seed propagation. Seeds should be stratified for three months prior to planting in a well-draining medium. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of sand and kept moist. Germination can take up to 18 months, and the seedlings should be transplanted to individual containers once they have developed their second set of true leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Crataegus lemingtonensis can also be propagated through softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the late spring, while hardwood cuttings should be taken in the fall. Cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining medium. It is recommended to keep the cuttings in a high humidity environment until they have rooted, which can take up to six weeks.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method of propagating Crataegus lemingtonensis. The most common grafting method for hawthorns is whip and tongue grafting. The scion wood should be collected in the winter and stored in a cool, humid environment until spring. The understock should be prepared in the early spring, and the scion should be grafted onto the understock. The graft should be wrapped with grafting tape and kept in a humid, shaded environment until the graft has taken.
Disease Management for Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg.
There are several diseases that might affect Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. Some of the common ones include:
1. Fire Blight
Fire blight is a bacterial disease that can affect trees in the Rosaceae family, including Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg. It is characterized by wilting leaves and blackening of the twigs and branches.
To manage this disease, prune the infected branches by cutting at least 6 inches below the infected area. Ensure you sterilize your pruning tools before use and in between cuts with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
2. Cedar-Apple Rust
This disease is caused by a fungus that spores during wet periods in the spring. It causes yellow spots on the leaves, and eventually, the entire leaf turns brown and drops off.
To manage the Cedar-Apple Rust, ensure to remove all the cedar trees around your landscape, as they are a significant host to the fungus and prune the infected branches. It would be best if you also applied fungicide during wet periods to prevent spread.
Pest Management for Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg.
Several pests can affect Crataegus lemingtonensis Sarg., and here are some of them:
1. Hawthorn Lace Bugs
Hawthorn Lace Bugs are pests that cause brown discoloration on leaves and weaken the plant. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract sap from the plant leaves.
To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to reduce the infestation. Ensure you follow the manufacturer's recommendation when using pesticides.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from plant leaves, causing a stippled appearance on the leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions.
To control spider mites, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant leaves. You can also apply miticidal soap or oil.
Overall, proper maintenance of the plant through regular pruning, timely watering, and fertilization can significantly lower the chances of pest and disease infestations.
