Overview
Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed is a species of tree in the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as the sweet crabapple, American crabapple, or wild crabapple. This tree is an understory species native to the deciduous forests of the eastern United States with high wildlife value.
Appearance
The sweet crabapple tree is usually 20 to 30 feet tall, but can grow up to heights of 45 feet. The plant has a dense and small crown, with a rounded or oblong shape. The bark is gray, and the wood is extremely hard and dense. The leaves are simple, alternate, and 3-6 inches long, usually lance-shaped or oval with a pointed tip. The leaves are glossy and have a dark green color, with serrated edges. The flowers appear from April to May, and are mildly fragrant, pink or white, in clusters of 2 to 6. The fruit is a small, round, apple-like berry that is 0.5-1.5 inches in diameter, with a sweet fragrance and taste that gives it its name.
Uses
Malus coronaria var. lancifolia has many uses. The fruit is consumed by wildlife, including birds and mammals such as deer, raccoons, and squirrels. Wild crabapple trees are also used in landscaping due to their attractive leaves and flowers. The fruit is edible and can be used to make jellies, jams, and even wine. Crabapple has been used to create hard cider, the forerunner of today's apple cider. The wood is also valued in the crafting of furniture due to its hardness.
Light Conditions
The Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed plant typically prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. A minimum of six hours of sunlight per day is recommended for optimal growth and fruit production. Too much shade can result in leggy growth and reduced fruit size.
Temperature
The Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed plant thrives in temperate climates with cool winters and mild summers. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). However, extreme temperatures can cause damage to the plant and reduce fruit production. During the dormant season, the plant requires a certain number of chill hours, which are hours under 45°F (7°C) that help the plant regulate growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant does not do well in compacted or waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot and limit water and nutrient uptake. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its structure and fertility. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, but can tolerate periods of drought once established.
Cultivation Methods
Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed, commonly known as sweet crabapple, is a deciduous tree that can reach a height of 20 to 35 feet. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location and can grow in zones 4 to 7. Plant the tree in late fall or early spring, digging a hole twice the size of the root ball. Mix the removed soil with compost and backfill the hole. Firm the soil around the tree and water it thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture, but avoid covering the trunk.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the establishment and growth of a young sweet crabapple tree. Water the tree deeply and regularly for the first year after planting, avoiding overwatering, which can cause root rot. Once the tree is established, it can tolerate some drought, but it will benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Check the soil often and water the tree when the top inch is dry. Deep watering, rather than frequent shallow watering, promotes deep rooting and drought tolerance.
Fertilization
The sweet crabapple responds well to yearly fertilization, which can enhance growth, blooming, and fruiting. It benefits from a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, applied in early spring before new growth appears. Use half a pound of fertilizer for every inch of trunk diameter, scattering it evenly around the tree's drip line. Water the area well after fertilization to avoid root burn. Avoid fertilizing the tree in late summer or fall, as this can promote late growth that is vulnerable to frost damage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for shaping the tree, removing diseased or damaged wood, and promoting blooming and fruiting. The best time to prune a sweet crabapple is in late winter or early spring before buds swell, as this minimizes the risk of disease transmission and sap bleeding. Use sharp, clean tools to make smooth cuts, avoiding tearing or crushing the bark. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches, water sprouts, and suckers growing from the base of the tree. Thin out crowded branches to allow sunlight and air circulation. Maintain a single leader and remove competing leaders or vertical branches. Avoid over-pruning, as this can weaken the tree and delay blooming.
Propagation of Malus coronaria var. lancifolia
Malus coronaria var. lancifolia, commonly known as the sweet crabapple, can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of the sweet crabapple can be collected in the fall season when the fruits ripen and turn yellowish-green. The seeds must be cleaned and scarified before planting in a well-draining soil medium. The ideal time for planting is in the spring, where the seeds can be sown directly into the ground or raised in a nursery bed before transplanting to their permanent location.
Propagation by Cuttings
The sweet crabapple can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken during the dormant season. The cuttings should be approximately 8-10 inches long with 2-3 buds, and be taken from the previous year's growth. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil medium, ensuring that the cutting does not dry out. The cuttings can be placed in a mist bed or a humid environment until they establish roots, after which they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a common method used to propagate the sweet crabapple due to its susceptibility to disease when grown on its own roots. The scionwood (plant cutting) for grafting should be taken from the desired plant cultivar and budded onto a rootstock of a compatible apple variety. The graft must be protected from extreme temperatures and external damage until it establishes, after which the union between the scion and rootstock will form a strong bond and grow into a single tree.
Disease Management
Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed is susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some common diseases include:
- Cedar apple rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on leaves and black spots on fruit. It can be managed by removing nearby cedar trees and using fungicides.
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease causes wilted branches and scorched leaves. Infected branches should be pruned and burned, and copper sprays can be used to prevent further spread.
- Apple scab: This fungal disease causes brown spots and deformations on fruit and leaves. It can be managed using fungicides and proper sanitation practices.
Pest Management
Malus coronaria (L.) P. Mill. var. lancifolia (Rehd.) C.F. Reed is also prone to damage by insect pests. Some common pests include:
- Apple maggot: This small, white larvae burrows into the fruit, causing deformations. Traps and insecticides can help manage this pest.
- Codling moth: This pest lays its eggs on fruit, and the larvae bore into the core, causing damage. Pheromone traps, insecticides, and good sanitation practices can help manage this pest.
- Aphids: These small insects feed on sap and can cause deformation and discoloration of leaves. They can be managed using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
