Overview of Crataegus pedicellata Sarg.
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. is a species of flowering plant in the Rosaceae family. This deciduous shrub is commonly known as the apple hawthorn or the red hawthorn. It is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in woodland edges, thickets, and rocky slopes.
General Appearance
The apple hawthorn can grow up to 6 meters in height, with a similar spread. The leaves are simple, lobed, and toothed, and are typically 4-7 cm in length, and 6-8 cm in width. The flowers produced by this plant are white and are borne in clusters. They bloom in late spring or early summer and are followed by small, red fruits that resemble apples. The fruit is edible, but the taste is generally described as mealy.
Uses
The apple hawthorn has cultural and medicinal uses. The fruit was historically used by indigenous people to treat dyspepsia, digestive problems, and respiratory issues. The plant's wood was also traditionally used for making tools, bows, and arrows. Today, hawthorn fruit is still used as an herbal supplement, primarily to support heart health and to regulate blood pressure. Hawthorn berry tea and tinctures are commonly used for these purposes.
Furthermore, the apple hawthorn is often planted as an ornamental shrub because of its attractive white flowers and red fruit. It can also be used in landscaping to form hedgerows or as a natural barrier.
Light Requirements
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight to grow well.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It grows well in temperature zones 5-9 and is drought-tolerant. However, during the summer months, it prefers cool temperatures around 60-70°F.
Soil Requirements
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5-7). It grows well in different types of soil, including loam, sand, and clay soils. It is important to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, as this may result in root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. plants prefer to grow in full sun and well-draining soil. When cultivating, it is best to choose a location with well-draining soil, as this plant does not tolerate standing water. The ideal soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5.
The plant can be propagated by seed, but it usually takes a long time to germinate. It is recommended to propagate by cuttings, which can be taken in early summer.
Watering Needs
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. plants require regular watering, especially during the first year of growth. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently, as the plant does not tolerate standing water. During the hot summer months, it may be necessary to water the plant more often.
Fertilization
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg. plants do not require heavy fertilization. The best way to fertilize this plant is to use organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or leaf mold. When applying fertilizers, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This plant is tolerant of heavy pruning and can be trained into any desired shape. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant. Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out any crossing or crowded branches.
Propagation Methods for Crataegus pedicellata Sarg.
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg., also known as the Eastern hawthorn, can be propagated through several methods. Below are some of the most effective ways:
Seed Propagation
Eastern hawthorn produces seeds that are viable for up to one year. Before sowing, the seeds must be stored at a temperature of 4°C (39.2°F) for 90-120 days to stratify them. Once stratified, the seeds can be sown in a tray filled with well-draining soil mix. Keep soil moist and wait for germination to occur which takes 3 to 4 weeks. It takes two to three years for the seedlings to reach a suitable size for planting in the ground.
Cuttings Propagation
This plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken during late summer or fall. Choose healthy vegetative shoots that are about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) long. Using clean and sharp pruning shears, cut the basal end at an angle and dip it immediately into a rooting hormone. Prick the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix about an inch deep, keep soil moist continuously. Cuttings will take approximately 8 -10 weeks to root. After rooting, they should be transferred to a larger pot and kept in until they grow vigorously enough to be planted in the ground.
Layering Propagation
Eastern hawthorn can be propagated through a layering technique. Select a low hanging branch that can be brought down to the soil level and make two small incisions in the bark. Apply rooting hormone on the area and cover with a layer of soil. After several months, roots will start to develop in the soil mixture, and the new plant can then be separated from the mother plant by cutting it at the base of the new root system.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can be the best way to propagate Eastern hawthorn, especially if you want an exact copy of the desired plant. Choose a “scion,” which is the top portion of a young stem with a few buds. After that, select a “rootstock,” which is an older plant with a sturdy root system. Cut a V-shaped wedge from the rootstock's stem and fit the scion to it. Align the layer between the outer bark of scion and rootstock on one side for optimum contact for graft healing. Graft union should then be wrapped tightly with grafting tape or wax. Transfer the graft to a warm location and ensure it has plenty of moisture and light. The result is a high probability of success in the formation of a single, consolidated tree.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus Pedicellata Sarg.
Crataegus pedicellata Sarg., commonly known as tall hawthorn, is a shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. As with any plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause harm to the plant's overall health and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Crataegus pedicellata, along with some ways to manage them.
Diseases
Cedar-Hawthorn Rust: Cedar-hawthorn rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. The disease can also cause distortions and malformations of the leaves. Managing this disease involves removing any infected leaves and pruning back any branches that show signs of infection. Fungicide applications may be necessary, and ensure that you avoid planting hawthorns near junipers.
Fire Blight: Fire blight is a bacterial disease that can cause wilting, blackening, and death of branches and flowers. The best way to manage this disease is to prune back the affected branches at least 6-8 inches below the visible signs of infection and avoid overhead irrigation. Also, avoid excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers as this can worsen the problem.
Pests
Apple Maggot: Apple maggot is a type of fly that lays its eggs on the fruit of the Crataegus pedicellata, causing unsightly and unappetizing scarring on the fruit. To manage this pest, use sticky traps to capture adult flies, and prevent fruit drop by bagging the fruit.
Leafminers: Leafminers are insects that tunnel through the leaves of the plant, causing damage and sometimes defoliation. Managing leafminers involves pruning off any heavily infested leaves and applying insecticides.
Scales: Scales are tiny insects that can create bumps or waxy coverings on the plant. They can negatively impact the plant's overall health and aesthetics. The best way to manage scales is to regularly inspect the plant for infestations and apply an appropriate insecticide.
By understanding the common diseases and pests that affect the Crataegus pedicellata, gardeners and horticulturists can take proactive steps to manage them effectively.
