Overview of Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is a hybrid plant species that belongs to the Rosaceae family and the Hawthorn genus. This plant is a result of the crossbreeding between the species Crataegus calpodendron and Crataegus flava. Some common names for Crataegus ×notha Sarg. include Yellowfruit hawthorn, Thornless cockspur hawthorn, and Apple hawthorn. This plant is native to the United States and can be found in the southeast region of the country.
General Appearance
Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a rounded shape, reaching a height of up to 20 feet. The branches of this plant are thornless, which makes it easier to handle. The leaves are lobed, deeply toothed, and have a glossy surface that is dark green in color. The flowers of Crataegus ×notha Sarg. are white and appear in clusters in late spring to early summer. The fruit of this plant is a yellow or red pome that can reach a diameter of up to 0.6 inches.
Uses
Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is commonly used in landscaping and as an ornamental plant due to its attractive white flowers and colorful berries. This plant is also used in the production of herbal medicine, with its fruit and flowers being commonly used to create tinctures, teas, and capsules. The fruit of Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is rich in flavonoids, which are believed to have antioxidant properties and can help reduce inflammation.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus ×notha Sarg. plant grows well in areas that receive full sun exposure. It is recommended that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Crataegus ×notha Sarg. requires a minimum temperature of -25 degrees Fahrenheit to grow properly. Such cold hardiness makes it suitable for planting in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8. Temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can cause heat stress to the plant, so it is best to avoid such hot conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant Crataegus ×notha Sarg. prefers well-draining soil. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, clay loam, and silt loam. However, the soil should be fertile, with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. Planting the Crataegus ×notha Sarg. in soil that is rich in organic matter provides the necessary nutrients for growth.
Cultivation methods for Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is a deciduous flowering tree that requires good soil drainage and full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions but thrives in loamy soils. It is best to plant it in the spring or fall, with a spacing of 10-20 feet apart.
Watering needs for Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Crataegus ×notha Sarg. requires regular watering, but it is essential not to overwater. It is recommended to water deeply once a week, especially during the first growing season to establish roots. It is best to avoid watering the foliage to prevent diseases.
Fertilization for Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth and improve its overall health. Apply a layer of compost around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients to the soil. Avoid over-fertilizing the tree as it may result in excessive growth, which can make the plant vulnerable to diseases and insects.
Pruning of Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to improve airflow and sunlight penetration. Thin out overcrowded growth to encourage healthy growth and promote the development of lateral branches. Avoid over-pruning, which can weaken the tree and affect its overall appearance.
Propagation of Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is a hybrid plant, formed by crossing Crataegus laevigata and Crataegus monogyna. This plant is commonly known as "the Midland hawthorn," and it is widely used as a hedge plant. There are several methods to propagate Crataegus ×notha Sarg., including:
Seed propagation
The most common method to propagate Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is by using seeds. The seeds of Crataegus ×notha Sarg. are small, and they require stratification before sowing. Stratification is a process of pre-treating seeds to simulate the natural conditions that trigger germination. To stratify the seeds of Crataegus ×notha Sarg., they must be stored for several weeks in a cool and moist environment. Once stratified, the seeds can be sown in pots or directly on the ground.
Cuttings propagation
Another way to propagate Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is by using cuttings. Cuttings are small pieces of the plant that are cut from the mother plant and grown to form a new plant. The best time to take cuttings of Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is in the summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from healthy branches and should be about 15 cm long. Once taken, the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a potting mix. The cuttings must be kept in a humid and warm environment until they develop roots.
Grafting propagation
A third method to propagate Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is by grafting. Grafting is a technique that involves attaching a piece of one plant to another to grow as a single plant. The best time to graft Crataegus ×notha Sarg. is in the early spring when the plant is still dormant. to graft Crataegus ×notha Sarg. using buds, the scion should be cut from healthy and mature branches, and the rootstock should be selected from a compatible Crataegus species. The scion and the rootstock must be cut and matched precisely before securing them together and covering them with grafting wax or tape.
Overall, Crataegus ×notha Sarg. can easily be propagated using seeds, cuttings, or grafting. By using any of these methods, gardeners can create new plants to add to their gardens or to propagate their existing plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus ×notha Sarg.
Crataegus ×notha Sarg., commonly known as hybrid hawthorn, is a small tree or shrub with thorny branches and white to pink flowers. It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are some issues that may affect its growth and health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Crataegus ×notha Sarg. and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots - This disease is caused by various fungi and is characterized by circular to irregular dark spots on the leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, you can remove the infected leaves and twigs and dispose of them properly. You can also apply fungicides during the growing season to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew - This disease is caused by a fungus that produces a white powdery substance on the leaves, flowers, and fruit. It can cause curling and distortion of the leaves and reduce plant vigor. To manage this disease, you can remove the infected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also apply fungicides during the growing season to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites - These pests are small, spider-like insects that feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing and stippling of the foliage. To manage spider mites, you can spray the foliage with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
Aphids - These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and distortion of the leaves and shoots. To manage aphids, you can spray the foliage with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
By knowing the common diseases and pests that may affect Crataegus ×notha Sarg. and how to manage them, you can ensure the health and vigor of your plant for years to come.
