Origin of Crataegus ×websteri Sarg.
Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. is a hybrid plant that originated from two species of hawthorn plants, Crataegus crus-galli and Crataegus macracantha. The plant is believed to have originated in North America.
Common Names of Crataegus ×websteri Sarg.
The common names of Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. include Webster thorn, Webster hawthorn, and Webster's hawthorn.
Uses of Crataegus ×websteri Sarg.
The plant has both ornamental and medicinal purposes. In landscaping, it is often used as a hedge and for erosion control. It is also used to attract wildlife such as birds due to its berries. In traditional Chinese medicine, the hawthorn plant is used to improve digestion, treat heart diseases, and lower blood pressure.
General Appearance of Crataegus ×websteri Sarg.
Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. is a deciduous shrub with an upright growth habit that can reach a height of up to 15 feet. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves that turn red in the fall. It produces an abundance of fragrant white flowers in late spring, which are followed by red berries in the fall. The thorny branches of the plant make it an effective barrier plant.
Light Requirements
The Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. plant requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate both shade and direct sunlight. However, too much shade can reduce the flowering and fruiting of the plant. Exposure to full sunlight is recommended for optimal growth and production of flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as -40°C (-40°F) during winter and as high as 40°C (104°F) in summer. The plant grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Soil Requirements
The Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve soil fertility and structure, which can enhance plant growth.
Cultivation
The Crataegus ×websteri Sarg., commonly known as Webster Hawthorn, is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide. It is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is also tolerant of different pH levels, but it performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil.
For cultivation, choose a location that provides full sun to partial shade and has well-draining soil. Plant the Webster Hawthorn in spring or fall, making sure to dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as its root ball. After planting, water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Watering Needs
The Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. requires moderate watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is best to water the plant deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions to prevent root rot. A mature Webster Hawthorn typically needs 1-2 inches of water per week, while newly planted ones require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
The Webster Hawthorn does not require excessive fertilization, but it benefits from occasional feedings to encourage healthy growth and blooming. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in early summer to provide essential nutrients. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can cause more harm than good.
Pruning
Pruning is vital for the health and aesthetics of the Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. It is best to prune the plant during its dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Use sharp and clean pruning tools to remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. You can also shape the plant by selectively removing some of the older branches to promote new growth.
Propagation of Crataegus ×websteri Sarg.
Crataegus ×websteri Sarg., commonly known as Webster Hawthorn or Webster's Thorn, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a hybrid of C. crus-galli and C. punctata and typically grows up to 20 feet tall. The tree is popularly cultivated for decorative and ornamental purposes and can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most reliable method of propagating Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. is through seed propagation. The seeds should be collected in autumn when they have turned brown or dark red. They should then be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring when they can be planted outside.
The seeds should be planted in well-drained soil, covered with a layer of compost, and kept moist. The best time to plant the seeds is in early spring, and they should germinate within two to three weeks. The young seedlings can be transplanted once they are large enough to handle, usually after one year.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. is through cuttings. Hardwood cuttings can be taken in late autumn or early winter. The cuttings should be approximately 25 cm in length, including several buds. Any leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in well-drained soil in a sheltered location. The cuttings should be watered regularly, and they should root within six months.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method that can be used for Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. This method involves bending a low-growing branch to the ground, creating a small trench beneath it, and covering the branch with soil, leaving the tip exposed. The branch should be lightly fastened into position and kept moist. The tip should be pruned once strong roots have formed, and the new plant can be transplanted once it has developed its own root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Crataegus ×websteri Sarg.
Crataegus ×websteri Sarg., commonly known as Webster's hawthorn, is a small deciduous tree that is relatively disease-resistant. However, there are a few diseases and pests that can affect the plant. It is important to identify these issues early and manage them effectively to prevent them from causing severe damage.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Webster's hawthorn is fire blight. This bacterial disease causes leaves, flowers, and fruit to wilt and turn brown or black. The affected areas look as if they have been scorched by fire, hence the name. Fire blight can spread rapidly throughout the plant, so it is important to remove infected branches as soon as possible. Prune at least 12 inches below the diseased area, and sterilize your pruning tools between cuts.
Cedar-apple rust is another disease that can affect Webster's hawthorn. This fungal disease causes yellow spots on the upper surface of leaves. As the disease progresses, the spots become more prominent, and the leaves may appear puckered or distorted. To manage cedar-apple rust, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them in the trash. Do not add them to a compost pile, as the disease can survive in the debris.
Common Pests
The most common pest that affects Webster's hawthorn is the hawthorn lace bug. This insect feeds on the undersides of leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown. If left untreated, lace bugs can cause severe defoliation and weaken the tree. To manage hawthorn lace bugs, spray the affected tree with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat the treatment every two weeks as needed.
Spider mites can also be a problem for Webster's hawthorn, especially in hot, dry weather. These tiny pests feed on the undersides of leaves, causing them to turn yellow or bronze. You may also see fine webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the tree with a strong stream of water to knock the pests off the leaves. Repeat the treatment every few days until the infestation is under control.
Overall, Crataegus ×websteri Sarg. is a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it is important to monitor the tree for signs of disease or pest infestation and manage any issues promptly to prevent them from causing lasting damage.
