Introduction
Crataegus mira Beadle is a low-growing deciduous shrub species of hawthorn in the family Rosaceae. It is commonly known as Chinese hawthorn or ?? in Chinese. Crataegus mira Beadle is native to China and typically grows in mountainous regions at elevations of 100-3000 meters above sea level.Appearance
Crataegus mira Beadle reaches a height of 2-4 meters and has a spreading habit. The plant has a smooth, gray-brown bark with long thorns on the branches. The leaves are alternate and have the shape of a rhombus, with a glossy dark-green color and serrated margins. The plant produces small white flowers in May and June, which are followed by small red fruits in August and September.Uses
Crataegus mira Beadle has been used traditionally in Chinese medicine to treat various ailments including digestive problems, diarrhea, and hypertension. The fruit of the plant is also used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. Crataegus mira Beadle is often planted as an ornamental shrub in gardens and parks due to its attractive white flowers and bright red fruit. In conclusion, Crataegus mira Beadle is a valuable plant species for both medicinal and ornamental purposes. Its beautiful appearance and versatile uses make it a popular choice for many gardeners and herbal medicine practitioners.Light Requirements:
The Crataegus mira Beadle plant requires full sun to partial shade for its growth. It prefers areas that receive abundant sunlight for at least six hours per day but it can tolerate some shade. If grown in partially shaded areas, it may produce fewer flowers and fruits than when grown under full sunlight conditions.
Temperature Requirements:
The optimal temperature range for Crataegus mira Beadle is between 60°F to 75°F (15.5°C to 24°C). These plants can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures. However, they will require protection from extreme temperatures, such as long periods of frost, which can cause damage to the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements:
Crataegus mira Beadle thrives in well-drained, moist, and moderately fertile soils. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (6.0 to 7.0). These plants can grow well in sandy soil or heavy clay soil types. However, the soil's texture should be loamy, which will aid in the fertility and water retention of the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus mira Beadle, commonly known as Chinese hawthorn, is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 7 meters in height. It is relatively easy to cultivate, thriving in well-drained soils with full sunlight exposure. The plant can tolerate a wide pH range and can also grow in slightly alkaline soils. The ideal growing temperature is between 20-30°C, and frosty conditions should be avoided.
Propagation of Crataegus mira Beadle can be through seeds or cuttings. Seed propagation is easier, where seeds can be collected from mature fruits that have fallen on the ground. Seedlings can be transferred to a nursery bed until they are ready to be transplanted to a permanent site. Cuttings can be taken in the summer and can be grown in a rooting hormone before transplantation. The plant should be grown in areas with good air circulation to avoid fungal and bacterial diseases.
Watering Needs
Crataegus mira Beadle has moderate water needs and can tolerate mild drought conditions. The plant should be watered deeply every week to ensure the top inches of the soil are moist. In general, a well-drained soil is preferred, and water-logged soils should be avoided to prevent root rot. When grown in a container, the plant should be watered according to the soil's moisture levels and the surrounding temperature and humidity.
Fertilization
Crataegus mira Beadle requires minimal fertilization to grow and produce fruits. A balanced N-P-K fertilizer can be applied once in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to imbalanced nutrient uptake, weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases. Organic fertilizers, such as well-rotted manure, compost and bone meal can also be incorporated into the soil to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning of Crataegus mira Beadle is not necessary, but it can be done to maintain the desired size and shape of the plant. In general, pruning is done during the early growth stages and can be done annually to remove dead and damaged branches. Diseased branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of diseases to healthy parts of the plant. Pruning cuts should be made at an angle and treated with a pruning sealant to prevent infection by pests and diseases.
Propagation of Crataegus Mira Beadle
Crataegus mira Beadle is primarily propagated by seeds, grafting, and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Crataegus mira Beadle can be sown in fall or spring. In fall, the seeds are sown in well-draining soil before the winter frost sets in. In spring, the seeds are sown after the danger of frost has passed.
Before sowing, seeds are washed and placed on a moist paper towel until the roots and shoot emerge. The seedlings are then transplanted into individual containers, and once they are sturdy enough, they can be transferred to open beds.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method used for Crataegus mira Beadle. It involves attaching the stem or bud of the desired plant onto a rootstock. The rootstock provides the necessary root structure and support to the new plant. In this method, care must be taken to ensure there is a good match between the stock and the scion variety, to prevent incompatibility problems.
For successful grafting, the rootstock must be chosen based on its vigor, hardiness, and resistance to pests and diseases. The scion; on the other hand, should be a healthy cutting from the desired plant.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method used for Crataegus mira Beadle. In this method, the cut part of the plant is planted in moist soil or water until roots form. The cutting should be taken from the plant's newer growth as it is more likely to root quickly. The cutting should also be dipped in rooting hormone or treated with a rooting gel before planting to encourage root development.
Once the roots are well established and the cutting has grown enough to be on its own, it can be transplanted into the ground or into a container. The success rate of this method of propagation is moderate to high, depending on the conditions.
Disease Management
Crataegus mira Beadle, commonly known as the Chinese hawthorn, can suffer from a variety of diseases. Some of the most common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease attacks the young shoots and leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and turn black. To manage this disease, prune infected parts of the plant and apply copper fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems and apply fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or sulfur.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes black spots to form on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems and apply fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes rust-colored spots to form on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems and apply fungicides containing sulfur or copper.
Prevention is the key to managing diseases in Crataegus mira Beadle. Ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, spaced appropriately, and pruned regularly to promote airflow. Additionally, remove any infected plant debris and practice good sanitation to prevent the spread of disease.
Pest Management
Crataegus mira Beadle can also be vulnerable to pests. Some of the most common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can cause distorted growth and the curling of leaves. To manage these pests, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves and fruit of the plant. To manage these pests, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These larvae can cause damage to the leaves and fruit of the plant. To manage these pests, manually remove them or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
- Scale insects: These pests can cause a yellowing of the leaves and a sticky substance on the plant. To manage these pests, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the best approach to manage pests in Crataegus mira Beadle. This approach involves monitoring the plant regularly for pests, promoting natural predators, and using chemical controls as a last resort. Additionally, ensure that the plant is healthy and well-watered to minimize pest problems.
