Overview
Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest. is a species of hawthorn tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the southern part of the Appalachian Mountains. It is a small tree that grows up to 10 meters tall and is also commonly known as Tracy's Hawthorn.
Appearance
The Crataegus tracyi tree has a round to oval-shaped crown with a trunk diameter of up to 20 cm. The tree's bark is grayish-brown and has a scaly texture. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. The tree blooms in the Summer, boasting clusters of white or pale pink colored flowers with yellow to pink anthers. These blooms are followed by the growth of small, red fruit or berries.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and fruit of Crataegus tracyi have been used in traditional medicine for their various health benefits. The berries of the plant can be made into jams, jellies, and syrups. Some studies show that compounds extracted from the plant may help in reducing high blood pressure, chest pain, and inflammation. The tree is also cultivated for ornamental purposes, and its attractive foliage and flowers make it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
In conclusion, Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest. is a beautiful and useful tree species known for its medicinal and ornamental benefits. Its attractive foliage and blossoms make it a popular option for garden enthusiasts, while its berries are edible and loaded with antioxidants.
Growth conditions for Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest.
Light: Crataegus tracyi thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions and requires at least 6 hours of light per day to grow and produce fruit.
Temperature: Crataegus tracyi is a hardy plant that grows well in a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in zones 5-9, which have an average annual temperature range of 18 to 27°C (65 to 80°F).
Soil: Crataegus tracyi prefers well-drained soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. However, it does not thrive in waterlogged or heavy soils. To improve soil drainage, add organic matter such as compost or leaf mold.
Water: This plant requires moderate watering. It is drought-tolerant, but it requires regular watering during extended dry periods to maintain optimal growth.
Fertilizer: Crataegus tracyi does not require heavy fertilization. Fertilize in late winter or early spring with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) that contains micronutrients. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet of growing area.
Pruning: Pruning is not required for the healthy growth of Crataegus tracyi. However, it may be necessary to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches. Prune in late winter or early spring, before the plant begins to produce new growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest., also known as Tracy's Hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is commonly found in the eastern United States. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown in a variety of conditions, including full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soils. To plant Crataegus tracyi, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and about the same depth. Mix in some compost or other organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage. Water thoroughly after planting and then keep the soil evenly moist until the plant becomes established.
Watering Needs
Tracy's Hawthorn prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once established. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot, and underwatering, which can lead to wilting and leaf drop.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Crataegus tracyi is not necessary but can help promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, in early spring before new growth appears. Follow the instructions on the label for application rates and methods. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Pruning
Pruning Crataegus tracyi is not essential, but it can help maintain a neat and tidy appearance and promote better health. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be pruned off at any time of the year to prevent the spread of infection or pests. Other pruning should take place after the plant has finished flowering in late spring or early summer. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches, as well as any water sprouts or suckers that emerge from the base of the plant. Light shaping can be done at this time, but avoid heavy pruning that could stunt growth or reduce flowering the following year.
Propagation of Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest.
Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest., commonly known as Tracy's hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub/tree species that is native to the southeastern United States. It is used in ornamental plantings and forms a dense thicket of branches with a height of up to 12 feet.
Propagation Methods
Various methods can be used to propagate Crataegus tracyi, including seeds, cuttings, and grafting. However, propagation by seeds and cuttings are the most commonly used methods for this plant species.
Propagation by Seeds
The collection of seeds from ripe fruit should be done in the fall. The seeds should be cleaned and stratified for 90-120 days before sowing. Stratification is essential to break dormancy and promote germination.
Seeds can be sown in trays or pots. Provide moist and well-draining soil, and keep the seeds evenly moist until germination. Germination usually takes several weeks to months, depending on the seed's age and viability.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings should be collected in the early spring from healthy, young, and actively growing shoots. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long with at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower node and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a potting mix with excellent drainage and keep it moist. Cover the pot with plastic to maintain humidity, and place it in a warm, bright area but not in direct sunlight. Roots should form in 6-8 weeks.
After roots are well-formed, transplant the cutting to a bigger pot or plant them in a suitable location. It is important to provide consistent watering until the plant becomes established.
Disease Management for Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest.
Crataegus tracyi is generally resistant to most diseases. However, in certain conditions, it can be susceptible to certain fungal and bacterial diseases. One of the most common fungal diseases that can affect this plant is fire blight, which causes the plant to appear scorched and blackened. To manage fire blight in Crataegus tracyi, it's essential to prune the diseased or infected branches and burn them to prevent further spread of the disease.
Another fungal disease that can cause problems for Crataegus tracyi is powdery mildew, which appears as a powdery white substance on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, you can use fungicides that contain potassium bicarbonate or neem oil. However, it's crucial to use fungicides only as instructed and be careful not to overapply them, which can further damage the plant.
Bacterial leaf spots and cankers can also infect Crataegus tracyi, causing irregular spots to appear on the leaves and branches. To treat bacterial infections, you can use copper-based fungicides that are specifically formulated for fruit trees. Copper-based fungicides are effective in killing the bacteria, but like other fungicides, it's essential to use them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management for Crataegus tracyi Ashe ex Egglest.
When it comes to pests, Crataegus tracyi is generally not susceptible to many insect pests. However, the tree can attract some pests like spider mites, scale insects, tent caterpillars, and apple maggot. Spider mites and scale insects usually cause the leaves to turn yellow or black, and in severe cases, the plant can lose its leaves. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In contrast, you can use horticultural oil to manage scale insects.
Tent caterpillars can encircle entire branches of the Crataegus tracyi and construct webs that have caterpillars inside. To manage tent caterpillars, you can prune the infected branches and dispose of them. Apple maggots can infest fruits of Crataegus tracyi, causing them to become pithy and inedible. To manage apple maggots, you can hang sticky traps in the tree to catch the adult flies before they lay their eggs in the fruit.
It's important to note that many insecticides that can manage pests can harm beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination. Therefore, it's crucial to use pesticides cautiously and only as instructed by the manufacturer. Proper cultural practices, such as pruning and maintaining proper tree health, can also help prevent pest infestations and manage them.
