Overview
Crataegus maloides Sarg., commonly known as the bigfruit hawthorn or western hawthorn, is a shrub or small tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to North America, specifically the western regions of the United States and Canada.Appearance
The bigfruit hawthorn varies in size, but typically grows to a height of 3-10 meters. It has a dense and spiny growth habit, with an irregularly rounded crown. The bark is grayish-brown and develops shallow, vertical fissures as it matures. The leaves are alternate, simple, and measure 3-8 cm in length. They have a slightly lobed, toothed edge and are a vibrant green color. The fragrant flowers are white, pink, or red and grow in clusters in the spring. In the fall, the plant produces large, red fruit that resembles small apples and can measure up to 2.5 cm in diameter.Uses
The bigfruit hawthorn has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. The plant's berries, leaves, and flowers have been used to treat heart disease, high blood pressure, and digestive issues. The fruit can also be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, the bigfruit hawthorn is commonly planted as an ornamental shrub due to its attractive flowers and fruit. It is also planted to create dense hedgerows and provide wildlife habitat.Conclusion
Overall, the bigfruit hawthorn is a versatile plant that has both practical and aesthetic uses. Its attractive appearance and medicinal properties make it a popular choice for landscaping and traditional medicine.Light Requirements
Crataegus maloides Sarg. prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is best to provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the plant to thrive. Any less than that, and the plant may not blossom or bear fruit properly.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus maloides Sarg. is best suited to temperate climates, and it is moderately frost-tolerant. The ideal temperature range is between 10°C to 25°C. The plant can survive in higher temperatures but may stop producing flowers and fruits.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Crataegus maloides Sarg. is loose, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. The pH range should be between 6.0 to 7.0. The native soil around the plant's area should enhance good drainage to prevent waterlogging. The soil should also be nutrient-rich, and the addition of compost or organic fertilizer can improve the soil composition.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus maloides Sarg., commonly known as Chinese hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree that is relatively easy to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but well-drained soil is preferable. When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, and make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil. Water thoroughly after planting.
Chinese hawthorn is not tolerant of high winds, so plant it in a sheltered spot if possible. It is best to plant in the fall or early spring, while the tree is still dormant.
Watering Needs
Chinese hawthorn requires regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, but the soil should never be allowed to completely dry out. In general, it is better to water deeply and infrequently than to water lightly and often. A layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture.
Fertilization
You can fertilize Chinese hawthorn in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and make the tree more susceptible to pests and diseases. If the tree appears healthy, you may not need to fertilize at all.
Pruning
Chinese hawthorn can be pruned in late winter or early spring, while the tree is still dormant. It responds well to pruning and can be trained to a single trunk or a multi-stemmed shrub. Prune out any dead, diseased, or damaged wood, and thin out any crossing or crowded branches. You can also prune to maintain a desirable shape or size. Avoid pruning in the summer, as this can stimulate new growth that may not harden off before winter.
Propagation of Crataegus maloides Sarg.
The plant Crataegus maloides Sarg., also known as the Chinese hawthorn, can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be collected from the mature fruits of the plant and used for propagation. The seeds should be cleaned of any flesh and sown in a well-draining soil mix. They can be stratified at approximately 4°C for 3-4 months before sowing. The ideal time for seed sowing is in the early spring. The seeds will germinate within 2-4 weeks, and the plant will start growing after a year.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can be taken from the current year or one-year-old wood in late summer to early autumn. The cuttings should be 6-8 inches in length, and their lower leaves should be removed. A rooting hormone is then applied to the base of the cuttings, which are planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a moist environment with high humidity levels until they develop roots, which may take 4-6 weeks.
Inarching Propagation
Inarching is a process where a young stem of Crataegus maloides Sarg. is grafted onto the root of another hawthorn plant. This method is preferred for grafting the plant since it enables a higher success rate. Small branches of the plant, which have buds, are grafted onto the young rootstocks. Grafting tape is then used to tie the plants securely, and a sealant is applied to the graft. The plants should be kept in a humid environment for several weeks until new growth appears.
Propagation through the three methods is suitable for the Crataegus maloides Sarg. plant. Therefore, growers can choose the method that best suits their needs, depending on the resources available.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus maloides Sarg.
Crataegus maloides Sarg., commonly known as the apple hawthorn, is susceptible to various diseases and pests, affecting its growth and reducing its yield. Disease and pest management are essential for the healthy growth and preservation of the plant.
Common Diseases
Apple hawthorns are highly susceptible to scab, a fungal disease that causes dark spots on leaves, fruits, and twigs, leading to defoliation and reduced yield. Powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Podosphaera clandestine, is another common disease affecting the plant. It shows up as white powdery spots on the leaves, and if not controlled, can affect the flowers and fruits, leading to their premature fall. Another common disease of the apple hawthorn is black knot, caused by the fungus Apiosporina morbosa. The disease causes black and rough swellings on twigs and branches, leading to their death if not controlled.
Disease Management
Cultural practices like proper sanitation, removing and destroying infected parts of the plant, and planting resistant cultivars can help prevent and control diseases. Applying fungicides like copper-based fungicides and sulfur-based fungicides at the right time and in the right application rates can also be useful in controlling diseases.
Common Pests
The apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella, is a common pest affecting the apple hawthorn. The pest causes tunnels in the fruits, leading to rotting, and reducing the crop yield. The other common pests affecting the plant include aphids, mites, scale insects, and caterpillars.
Pest Management
The best approach to managing pests in the apple hawthorn is cultural practices that improve plant health, including proper pruning, timing of irrigation, and use of organic fertilizers. Organic pesticides like neem oil and insecticidal soaps can also be effective in managing pests in the apple hawthorn.
Overall, disease and pest management for the apple hawthorn is crucial for the plant's healthy growth and yield. Implementing preventitive strategies and timley application of management options is key to maintaining a healthy plant.
