Origin of Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke, also known as the Giant hawthorn, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family, Rosaceae. It is native to eastern North America, particularly in the United States, from southern Maine south to Georgia, and west to Alabama, Texas, and Oklahoma.Common names of Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke is commonly called the Giant hawthorn due to its large size compared to other hawthorn species. Other common names include woodland hawthorn, downy hawthorn, red haw, and May haw.General appearance of Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of up to 30 feet. It has a dense and rounded crown with a spread of 20 to 25 feet. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a coarsely toothed margin. They are green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The bark is gray-brown and becomes rough as the plant ages. The Giant hawthorn produces small white flowers in May, which are followed by bright red, spherical pome fruits that persist into the winter. The fruits are edible but are generally not consumed due to their tart taste and large seeds.Uses of Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke is mainly grown for its ornamental value due to its attractive flowers and foliage, as well as its ease of maintenance. The species is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as heart and circulatory disorders, high blood pressure, and digestive problems. The bark and fruits of the Giant hawthorn have also been used to flavor alcoholic beverages and jams.Growth Conditions of Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke, commonly known as giant hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically found in the Midwestern and Eastern regions of the United States. The following are the typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light
Giant hawthorn prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to grow and develop properly. Lack of light can lead to stunted growth and weak stems. Therefore, it is essential to plant it in an open area that receives sufficient sunlight.
Temperature
Giant hawthorn is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, including freezing temperatures and summer heat. However, it prefers a moderate climate with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 27°C (68°F to 81°F). During winter, the tree goes dormant, during which it can withstand temperatures as low as -34°C (-30°F).
Soil Requirements
Giant hawthorn grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. However, it is essential to avoid planting it in waterlogged soils, as it can lead to root rot.
In summary, giant hawthorn thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions, moderate temperatures, and well-draining soils. By providing these optimal growth conditions, you can ensure the healthy growth and development of this deciduous tree.
Cultivation
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke, commonly known as the giant hawthorn, grows well in deep, moist, and fertile soils. It prefers well-drained soils with a pH of 6 - 6.5. The plant is hardy, and it can tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions, although it grows best in full sun or light shade.
The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or grafting. The seeds should be sown in the fall or spring in well-draining soil. Cuttings should be taken in the summer, and grafting is best done in the spring.
Watering Needs
The giant hawthorn requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly before the next watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
The watering needs of the plant will vary depending on the soil type, temperature, and humidity levels. It is important to monitor the soil moisture regularly and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
The giant hawthorn responds well to organic fertilizer, which should be applied in the early spring. The fertilizer should be spread evenly around the plant, avoiding direct contact with the stem. Nitrogen-rich fertilizer should be avoided as it can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
In addition to organic fertilizer, the plant benefits from the incorporation of organic matter into the soil. Compost or well-rotted manure should be added to the soil annually to improve soil fertility and texture.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the health and shape of the giant hawthorn. The plant should be pruned in the early spring before the new growth appears. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed first, followed by any crossing or rubbing branches.
The plant can be pruned to maintain a desirable shape and size, and to encourage air circulation and sunlight penetration. The lower branches should be pruned to allow clearance for mowing or walking.
The use of clean, sharp pruning tools is crucial to prevent the spreading of diseases. After pruning, the tools should be disinfected with a solution of one-part bleach to nine parts water.
Propagation of Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Propagation is an essential process in the cultivation of crops or plants. Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke is a shrub that could be propagated by several methods. It is essential to know these methods to ensure the plant's sustainability and productivity.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common and economical method of propagating Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke. The seeds could be collected and sown in a seedbed or nursery. To improve the germination rate, the seed could be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing. The seedbed or nursery should be prepared by loosening the soil to a depth of 15-20 cm and removing weeds or debris. The seeds should be spread uniformly and covered with a thin layer of soil. It is essential to water the seedbed or nursery regularly until the seedlings emerge. After emergence, the seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots or to the field.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation could also be used to propagate Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke. This method involves taking a part of the plant and using it to propagate a new plant. The vegetative part could be a stem, root, or leaf. Cuttings from a healthy plant could be taken and dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cuttings should be planted in a prepared nursery or potting medium and watered regularly until they develop roots. The new plant could be transplanted to the field after root formation.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting is another method that could be used to propagate Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke. This method involves joining the stem of a plant with another plant that has a well-developed root system. The stem used is called the scion, and the plant used for root development is called the rootstock. The scion is placed on top of the rootstock and aligned with the cambium layer. After alignment, the scion and rootstock are connected using a grafting tape or sealant. The plant is then cared for until the graft union develops and the new plant could be transplanted to the field.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke
Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke, also known as the giant hawthorn, is a large shrub or small tree that is native to eastern North America. While this plant is generally healthy and easy to care for, it is still susceptible to a few common diseases and pests that can be managed with proper care and attention. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect the giant hawthorn and some suggested strategies for managing them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that can cause brown spots on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overcrowded, and avoiding watering the plant’s leaves. If the disease does occur, it can be managed by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
Fire Blight: Fire blight is a bacterial disease that can cause wilting and blackened leaves or stems. This disease can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and fertilizing the plant appropriately. If the disease does occur, it is important to prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cause stunted growth and wilting. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, or by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to kill them.
Mites: Mites are tiny insects that can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. They can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overcrowded and that it is not over-watered. If mites are present, they can be managed by spraying the plant with neem oil or a miticide.
Scale: Scale insects are small, hard-shelled pests that can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not over-fertilized and that it is not overcrowded. If scale does occur, it can be managed by spraying the plant with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
By taking these precautions and managing diseases and pests promptly, a healthy and thriving Crataegus mollis Scheele var. gigantea Kruschke can be maintained.
