Origin
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. is commonly known as the "Arizona ash" which is a variety of the species Fraxinus pennsylvanica, and is a member of the Oleaceae family. This deciduous tree is native to North America, specifically the southwestern United States, and can be found growing in regions with hot summers and mild winters.
Common Names
The Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. is commonly known as the Arizona ash, velvet ash, Modesto ash, or Fresno ash. The common names make reference to the tree's place of origin or its appearance, as the tree has a velvety texture to its leaves and branches.
General Appearance
The Arizona ash is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of up to 50 feet and a spread of 30 feet. The tree has a rounded shape with a single trunk and irregular branches that form a dense crown. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray when the tree is young, but becomes rough and develops furrows as it matures. The leaves are compound and can grow up to 10 inches long with seven to nine leaflets that are lanceolate, serrated, and a glossy green on top while velvety on the bottom. The tree produces small, insignificant flowers in the early spring, followed by winged samara fruit that is two inches long.
Uses
The Arizona ash is commonly used as a shade tree in parks and residential landscapes due to its rapid growth and attractive appearance. It also serves as a windbreak in the southwestern United States due to its sturdy branches. The wood of the tree is prized by woodworkers for making furniture, flooring, and other household items, while its leaves can be used as a natural, organic mulch for other plants.
Light Requirements
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. thrives in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but it may grow slower and produce fewer flowers and fruits than those exposed to full sun. Too much shade may also produce long, weak stems and poor-looking foliage. Therefore, it is best to plant it in an area where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. is between 60°F to 75°F. This tree species can tolerate colder temperatures during the winter but may struggle to grow in areas with extreme heat. A prolonged season of high temperatures exceeding 90°F may cause significant leaf scorching and damage to the tree.
Soil Requirements
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. It can tolerate a wide range of soils, including clay, sand, and loam. However, this tree species does not grow well in saturated soils or areas prone to flooding. The optimal pH range for its growth is between 6.0 and 7.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can provide the necessary nutrients for better growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. is a deciduous tree that thrives in well-draining loamy soil. Plant the tree in an area that receives full sun exposure to ensure that it grows vigorously. Before planting the tree, loosen the soil to enhance air circulation and water penetration. The tree has shallow roots; therefore, avoid planting it in areas with water-logged soil.
Watering Needs
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. requires regular watering during the growing season. Ensure that the soil remains moist but avoid overwatering that leads to waterlogged soil. A well-established adult tree requires supplemental watering during prolonged drought periods.
Fertilization
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. requires regular fertilization to promote growth and health. Apply a balanced fertilizer every spring before the growing season begins. If your soil is deficient in essential nutrients, you can add organic fertilizers such as compost to enhance soil fertility.
Pruning
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. requires moderate pruning to remove damaged, diseased, or dead branches. Prune the tree regularly to enhance air circulation and sunlight penetration into the canopy. Avoid pruning too much, as it can result in massive sap flow, leading to weakness and disease. The best time to prune the tree is during the dormant season.
Propagation of Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill.
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill., commonly known as the Arizona ash or velvet ash, is a deciduous tree native to the southwestern United States.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. can be done through seed propagation. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil during the fall or early spring. The seed should be planted in a hole that is twice the depth of the seed. Cover the seeds with soil and press the soil firmly.
The soil should be kept moist, but it should not be too wet. Germination of Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. can take up to six weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. can also be done through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the tree during the dormant season, which is typically in the fall or winter. The cutting should be 8-10 inches long and should include a few leaves.
The cutting should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The cutting should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, humid environment. Rooting can take up to four weeks.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is also a possible propagation method for Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill. This method involves grafting a scion of the desired plant onto the rootstock of another tree. The scion should be taken from a healthy plant and grafted onto the rootstock during the dormant season.
The graft should be kept moist and warm until it starts to sprout. After the graft has sprouted, the tree can be planted in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Fraxinus Pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. Velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill.
Fraxinus Pennsylvanica Marsh. ssp. Velutina (Torr.) G.N. Mill., commonly known as velvet ash, is a popular tree species known for its fast growth and beautiful foliage. However, just like any other plant, it is prone to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect velvet ash, as well as ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Ash yellows: This is a viral disease that can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. The disease is spread by insects such as leafhoppers, so controlling the insect population can help prevent the spread of the virus. There is no cure for ash yellows, so the infected plant should be removed and destroyed to prevent the disease from spreading to other plants.
2. Ash rusts: This is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing and premature leaf drop. Control measures include pruning infected branches and applying fungicides to prevent the spread of the fungus to healthy branches. Proper fertilization and watering can also help prevent the disease.
3. Verticillium wilt: This is a fungal disease that can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves, as well as dieback of branches. Control measures include removing infected plants and avoiding planting velvet ash in soil that has previously hosted the disease.
Common Pests
1. Emerald ash borer: This is a beetle species that can cause significant damage to the tree by tunneling into the bark and disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. Control measures include using insecticides and increasing the tree's overall health through proper fertilization and watering.
2. Ash plant bug: This is a common pest that can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Control measures include using insecticides and practicing good sanitation by removing fallen leaves, which can serve as a breeding ground for the pest.
3. Ash flower gall: This is a small insect that can cause the formation of abnormal growths on the tree's flowers and leaves. Control measures include pruning infected branches and removing any affected plant material.
By implementing these disease and pest management practices, growers can ensure the long-term health and productivity of velvet ash trees.
