Overview
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is a species of hawthorn plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the southeastern region of the United States, particularly in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky. It is commonly known as the Putnam County hawthorn or riverflat hawthorn.
Appearance
The plant is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. Its trunk and branches are covered with a gray-brown bark that has shallow fissures and bumps. The leaves are simple, lobed, and have serrated edges. They are dark green and shiny on top and lighter green on the underside. The flowers bloom from April to May and are usually white or pink. The fruit is a rounded, red or orange berry that contains 2 or 3 seeds.
Uses
The Putnam County hawthorn is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive and unique appearance. It is also used in landscaping as a hedgerow or small tree because of its dense foliage and hardiness. The fruit is edible but not commonly consumed by humans due to its bitter taste and large seeds. However, it is a valuable food source for birds, which disperse its seeds and help spread the plant. Traditional medicine also uses the plant's leaves and flowers to treat various ailments such as heart disease, digestive problems, and anxiety. Nevertheless, it is important to seek professional medical advice before using the plant for medicinal purposes.
Growth Conditions for Crataegus putnamiana Sarg.
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is a small tree or shrub that is native to the United States, specifically found in the Appalachian Mountains. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 15 feet in height and spread up to 15 feet in width. To grow and thrive, the plant requires certain growth conditions.
Light
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. prefers full sun exposure to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may not flower as abundantly or produce as many berries. Therefore, it is best to plant the tree or shrub in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It prefers cool to mild climates and can handle winter temperatures below freezing. However, extreme heat and drought stress the plant and may cause leaf scorch or premature leaf drop. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the tree or shrub where it can receive shade during hot summer afternoons.
Soil
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. likes well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. However, it does not do well in poorly drained or heavy clay soils. It is important to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged during the growing season, particularly during the first year after planting.
Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss to the soil can improve drainage and soil fertility, which can increase the plant's growth and health.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is a hardy, deciduous shrub that is relatively easy to cultivate, making it a popular choice among gardeners. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 4-8 and does well in full sun to partial shade.
The plant should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Propagation is done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a seedbed in the fall or spring, while cuttings should be taken from mature plants in the spring.
Watering Needs
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. requires moderate watering, especially during the first year after transplanting. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the winter months.
It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help to retain soil moisture.
Fertilization
The plant does not require a lot of fertilizer and can thrive in nutrient-poor soil. However, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help to promote healthy growth and encourage flowering.
Organic options such as compost or well-rotted manure are preferred over chemical fertilizers. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer, as over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for the plant's health, but it can help to maintain its shape and promote more abundant flowering. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Dead, damaged or diseased branches should be removed first, followed by any crossing or rubbing branches. It is also possible to prune the plant for aesthetic purposes, such as to control its size or shape.
When pruning, it is important to use sharp and clean tools to avoid damaging the branches. The cut should be made just above a healthy bud or branch junction.
Propagation of Crataegus putnamiana Sarg.
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg., commonly known as Putnam's hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to the United States and is commonly found in the eastern part of the country.
Propagation of Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant can be sown in a nursery bed or in small pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. The best time to sow the seeds is in fall or early spring. The seeds should be kept moist and warm until they germinate, which can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. can also be done through cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from new growth in the early summer. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and should be taken from the tips of the branches. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they root, which can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. can also be done through division. The plant can be divided in the early spring before new growth appears. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball should be divided into several sections. Each section should have several shoots and roots. The divided sections should then be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and watered thoroughly.
Overall, Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is an easy plant to propagate, and the various propagation methods that can be used make it easy for gardeners to propagate this plant and grow it in their gardens.
Disease Management
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it is not entirely immune to certain diseases. The most common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Fire blight
- Cedar-Quince rust
- Leaf spot
Fire blight: This is a bacterial disease that affects the plant's twigs, branches, and fruit. It causes wilting and discoloration of the leaves and stems. Infected parts of the plant have a scorched appearance. To manage this disease, you can prune off the infected parts and dispose of them properly. Applying copper-based fungicides can also help in controlling the spread of the disease.
Cedar-Quince rust: This is a fungal infection that causes yellow spots on the leaves, which eventually turn orange or rust-colored. It can also affect the fruit. To manage this disease, you can prune off the infected parts and dispose of them properly. You can use fungicides containing chlorothalonil to control the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot: This is a fungal infection that results in the appearance of small, dark spots on the leaves. It can cause leaf drop and defoliation. To manage this disease, you can prune off the infected parts and dispose of them properly. You can also apply fungicides containing myclobutanil or propiconazole.
Pest Management
Crataegus putnamiana Sarg. is also relatively pest-resistant. However, it is not entirely immune to pests. Some common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that can be difficult to detect. They suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop. You can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of spider mites. Make sure you thoroughly spray the undersides of the leaves to ensure complete coverage.
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems. They can cause deformation and stunting of the plant. You can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of aphids. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to control their population.
