Overview
Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis is a plant species within the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as the green hawthorn or greenleaf hawthorn. The plant is native to the United States.
Appearance
The green hawthorn is a small deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 10 feet tall. It has thorny branches and alternate, simple, and toothed dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. In the spring, the plant produces clusters of small white flowers that develop into bright red or orange fruits called haws.
Uses
The green hawthorn has been traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. The plant is believed to have diuretic, cardiac, sedative, and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit of the plant is edible and has been used to make jellies, jams, and tea. Additionally, the plant is used as an ornamental shrub in landscaping.
Light Requirements
The plant Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis typically requires full sunlight to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but full sunlight is preferred for maximum growth and health.
Temperature Requirements
Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis grows best in moderately warm temperatures. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures from -23°C to 38°C, but the optimal temperature range for growth is between 15°C to 25°C. During the winter season, it goes into dormancy.
Soil Requirements
The plant Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis prefers well-drained, loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged or too dry. It can tolerate rocky soil types. It can also grow in poor soils but will grow slowly without proper fertilization.
Cultivation Methods
The Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis is a hardy plant and can tolerate almost any soil type. Well-drained soil is preferable, though. The plant is best grown in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. It is easy to propagate by seeds. The best time to plant is during spring, as this gives the plant enough time to establish before winter.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the first few months of growth. Mature plants can tolerate drought conditions. It is advisable to water the plant only when the soil is dry, as overwatering can cause root rot. Apply water directly to the soil at the base of the plant, rather than from overhead, which can cause leaf diseases.
Fertilization
The Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis is not a heavy feeder, and a single application of fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer and apply it at the plant's base. Do not apply fertilizer during the fall, as this can encourage new growth, which can be damaged during winter.
Pruning
Pruning the plant will help to maintain an attractive shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the young plant during its first winter to remove unwanted branches and shape it. Mature plants require little pruning, and it is best to do it in early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out crossing branches to allow better air circulation.
Propagation of Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis
Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis, commonly known as green hawthorn, is a deciduous species native to North America.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagating green hawthorn is through seed propagation. The best time to sow the seeds is in fall or winter when they are still fresh. Before sowing, the seeds must be soaked in water for 24 hours to increase their germination rate. Once soaked, plant the seeds ¼ inch deep in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist but not waterlogged. It will take about 4-6 weeks for the seeds to germinate, and once they grow big enough to handle, transplant them to larger containers or a permanent place in the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Green hawthorn can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in summer when the plant is in active growth. Take a cutting that is at least 6 inches long, and remove all the leaves on the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag or propagate it in a humidity chamber to maintain the moisture level. Place the cutting in a brightly lit area but not in direct sunlight. It will take about 2-3 months for the cutting to root and another few weeks to acclimate to normal conditions.
Grafting Propagation
Another propagation method for green hawthorn is through grafting. Grafting is the process of joining a piece of one plant to another plant with a compatible rootstock to create a new plant. The best time to graft is in early spring when the plant is still dormant. Select a healthy and disease-free rootstock that will fit the scion. The scion should have at least two buds. Make a diagonal cut on both the rootstock and the scion stem and join them together. Secure the two parts together using grafting tape. Place the grafted plant in a humid environment with bright, indirect light until the graft has healed, and the new plant begins to grow.
Propagation of Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis can be achieved through various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings propagation, and grafting propagation. Understanding the most suitable way for propagation will contribute significantly to the success of the propagation process.
Disease Management
Crataegus viridis L. var. viridis, commonly known as green hawthorn, is susceptible to various diseases that affect its growth and yield. The most common diseases that affect this plant include fire blight, leaf spot, and cedar apple rust. Fire blight is a bacterial infection that affects the branches and flowers of the plant. It causes wilting and blackening of the affected parts, and the leaves turn brown. Leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora, results in the formation of brown spots on the leaves. Cedar apple rust is a fungal infection that causes yellowing of leaves, stem girdling, and premature leaf loss. To manage fire blight, it is necessary to prune the infected parts of the plant, as well as remove any fallen debris from the base of the plant. The plant should also be watered at the base, avoid overhead irrigation, and ensure proper air circulation. For leaf spot, it is essential to remove the infected leaves and debris that falls around the plant. Fungicides may be applied to the plant to control the spread of the disease. Cedar apple rust can be treated with fungicides, but the best way to manage this disease is to remove any nearby juniper trees.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect the growth and yield of C. viridis L. var. viridis. The most common pests include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. Aphids feed on the plant's sap, causing it to wilt and yellow, while spider mites cause yellowing of leaves and a fine webbing on the leaves. Japanese beetles feed on the plant's leaves, causing defoliation, which can lead to reduced growth and yield. To manage these pests, it is necessary to inspect the plants regularly and remove any infected parts. Insecticides and miticides may be applied to control the pests. It is also essential to ensure proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding of plants, which can create a favorable environment for pests to thrive. Additionally, regular watering and fertilization can help plants become healthier and more resistant to pests.
