Description of Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg.
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is a species of tree in the genus Crataegus, belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as the New Baxter hawthorn and is native to North America, specifically found in the Appalachian Mountains, ranging from North Carolina to Virginia.
General Appearance
The New Baxter hawthorn grows up to a height of 15 to 20 feet, with an equal spread. The tree produces a dense, rounded crown with thorny branches and an irregular shape. The plant's leaves are deciduous, oval-shaped, and deeply lobed, with a shiny, dark green appearance that turns red during the fall season.
The Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. blooms in late spring or early summer, exhibiting clusters of small, white flowers. The fruit that develops is an edible, round, and red berry that matures in the fall.
Uses
The New Baxter hawthorn has been used traditionally in Native American medicine to treat ailments such as heart problems and digestive issues. The plant's berries are also used to make preserves, jams, and wines.
The Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is suitable for planting as an ornamental tree or in hedges. Its dense, thorny branches make it useful as a barrier plant. Finally, the plant's fruit serves as a significant food source for wildlife, such as birds.
Growth conditions of Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg.
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is a small tree or shrub that is native to North America. It is commonly known as the Baxter hawthorn and has become a popular garden plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Light requirements
This plant species thrives in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow and flower properly. When planted in shady areas, the plant may grow taller than usual, but its flowers and fruits may not develop well.
Temperature requirements
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, where the average annual minimum temperature ranges from -30°F to 20°F (-34°C to -6°C). It is capable of growing in a wide range of temperatures due to its deep roots, which allow it to access water and nutrients from the soil.
Soil requirements
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.5). The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it does not grow well in soils that are waterlogged or poorly drained.
The plant can also grow in relatively poor soils, but adding compost or organic matter can improve growth and flowering. Fertilizer should be applied only when necessary, as excess nitrogen can cause leafy growth and reduce flower production.
Cultivation methods
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. commonly known as Baxter's hawthorn is a hardy plant that thrives well in most soil types. The first step in the cultivation of this plant is getting the right soil in place. Plant in a well-drained soil composition with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant thrives best in a semi-shaded area, but it can also tolerate full sun, provided it gets enough water.
Watering needs
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. requires frequent watering during its growth period. Young plants require regular watering, but once the roots establish themselves, the plant's watering schedule may reduce. Check the soil moisture levels frequently and water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Consistent watering, especially in the dry summer months, encourages healthy growth of the plant.
Fertilization
During the first growing season, avoid fertilizing the plant, as it can hinder its growth. Once the plant reaches maturity, apply a balanced fertilizer or compost around its base at the start of each growing season, usually in spring. Apply fertilizer at half strength to avoid overfeeding the plant. Over-fertilization can lead to weak growth, which can make the plant vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the attractive shape of the plant, promote new growth, and manage pest and disease infestations. Prune the plant in late winter before the new growth starts. Remove the crossed branches, thin out any dense foliage and remove any dead or diseased wood. Prune the plant to achieve an open framework with a strong branch structure. Pruning also encourages the plant to produce more flowers and berries.
Propagation of Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg.
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is commonly propagated through seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be collected in the fall and stratified for 90-120 days at 4°C before planting in early spring. The seeds can be sown in containers or directly into the field. However, direct field sowing may result in uneven germination due to soil moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Cutting Propagation
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken from current season's growth or 1-year-old wood can be used for propagation. Cuttings should be taken in early summer and treated with rooting hormone before planting in a well-drained rooting medium. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they show signs of new growth.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is the preferred method for propagating Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. onto a rootstock. Whip or cleft grafting can be used for the propagation. The scion should be taken from the current season's growth and should match with the diameter of the rootstock. The graft union should be protected with grafting wax or tape until it fully heals.
Disease Management
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is generally resistant to most diseases, but it can still be affected by some fungal diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The most common diseases include:
- Fire blight: Fire blight is a bacterial disease that causes wilting and blackening of the flowers, leaves, and twigs. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected branches and avoid over-fertilization and over pruning that can encourage new growth.
- Cedar-hawthorn rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on the leaves and the formation of orange, gelatinous spore masses on the undersides of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected leaves and ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected leaves and ensure proper irrigation.
Pest Management
Crataegus neobaxteri Sarg. is vulnerable to some pests that can affect its growth and production. The most common pests include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and twigs, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is essential to deter them using natural methods like using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: Mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage mites, it is essential to prune the infected branches and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to deter them.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop. To manage scale insects, it is essential to prune the infected branches and use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to deter them.
