Overview of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. is a species of hawthorn tree also commonly known as the Prairie hawthorn. It is part of the Rosaceae family and can be found in the central and western parts of the United States.
Appearance of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 feet in height and spread up to 15 feet in width. The tree has dark green leaves that are oval in shape and around 2 inches in length. The tree produces white or pink fragrant flowers that bloom from April to May, followed by small red fruit that ripen in September.
Uses of Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. has been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes for centuries. The tree bark, leaves, and fruit have been used to treat heart issues, digestive problems, and skin conditions. The tree's wood is also used for crafting and making tool handles.
Today, Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. is grown as an ornamental tree for its attractive appearance and is planted in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. The tree is also used to provide food and habitat for wildlife such as birds and small mammals.
Light Requirements
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. requires full sunlight to grow properly. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It cannot tolerate shaded areas and will grow poorly or die when planted in shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a variety of temperatures, ranging from -29°C to 38°C, but it thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature for growth is between 18°C and 26°C. Temperature fluctuations don't have a significant impact on the plant, but extreme heat or cold stresses the plant, making it susceptible to pests and diseases.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. grows well in deep, well-drained, and moist soils. The plant needs fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Sandy loam or loamy soil textures are considered ideal for this plant. It can grow in moderately saline and alkaline soils as well. Heavy or waterlogged soils are not suitable for the plant, and it may die or grow poorly in such conditions.
Cultivation
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. is a deciduous plant that can be propagated through seed or grafting. When planting it, make sure that the area is well-draining and has sufficient sunlight. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0. It is also important to protect the plant from strong winds.
Watering needs
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. requires regular watering, especially during the summer season when the weather is hot and dry. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant deeply, reaching the roots. The frequency of watering can be reduced during the winter months.
Fertilization
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. benefits from regular fertilization in early spring or late fall. The use of a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will promote healthy growth. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure are also good options.
Pruning
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size, promote healthy growth, and remove any diseased or damaged branches. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. The best practice is to prune one-third of the older branches each year to prevent over-pruning.
Propagation of Crataegus Macrosperma Ashe var. Demissa (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and grafting. The propagation method to be used depends on the grower's objectives and the available resources.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is a common method for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. Seeds are collected in the fall after ripening and stored in a cool and dry place. In the spring, the seeds can be stratified for three months before planting in a well-prepared site. The site should be weed-free and have an adequate water supply. The seeds take approximately two to three years to germinate.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is also an effective way to propagate Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. Hardwood cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the dormant season and stored in a cool and moist place. In the spring, the cuttings can be treated with rooting hormone before being planted in a well-prepared soil mixture. The cuttings take approximately six to eight weeks to root and can be transplanted when roots are visible.
Propagation through Grafting
Propagation through grafting is a common method for propagating Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest. Grafting involves joining a scion from a desired cultivar onto a rootstock from a hardy variety. This method allows growers to propagate the desired plant traits from the scion while also taking advantages of the hardiness of the rootstock. Grafting is a complex process and requires experience to ensure a successful graft.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest.
Crataegus macrosperma Ashe var. demissa (Sarg.) Egglest., commonly known as the Prairie Hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree that is native to the Great Plains region of the United States. While it is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, there are still a few common diseases and pests that can affect it and require management.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that Prairie Hawthorn can develop is fire blight, which is caused by the bacteria Erwinia amylovora. Symptoms include wilting, blackening, and shriveling of the leaves and twigs. Fire blight can be managed through the application of copper fungicides and the removal and destruction of infected plant material.
Another disease that can affect Prairie Hawthorn is cedar-apple rust, which is a fungal disease that is common in areas where cedar trees and apple trees are planted in close proximity. Symptoms include yellowish-orange spots on the leaves and fruit, and small brown spots on the stems and twigs. Cedar-apple rust can be managed through the use of fungicides and by removing nearby cedar trees.
Common Pests
Prairie Hawthorn can also be affected by a few common pests, including the hawthorn lace bug and the hawthorn leafminer. The hawthorn lace bug is a small insect that feeds on the undersides of the leaves and can cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. It can be managed through the use of insecticidal sprays.
The hawthorn leafminer is a small fly whose larvae feed on the interior of the leaves and can cause blotches and curling of the foliage. It can be managed through the use of insecticidal sprays and the removal and destruction of infected leaves.
Preventative Measures
To prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests on Prairie Hawthorn, it is important to maintain good plant health through proper watering and fertilization. Additionally, pruning out dead or diseased branches can help prevent the spread of diseases. It is also a good idea to inspect plants regularly for signs of diseases and pests, and to take action promptly if any are detected.
By following these disease and pest management practices, Prairie Hawthorn can remain a healthy and vibrant addition to any landscape.
