Origin
Tilia americana L. var. neglecta (Spach) Fosberg, commonly known as the American Linden or Basswood, is a tree native to North America. The plant can be found from Manitoba, Canada, to Texas and Florida in the United States. It usually grows in moist soils in bottomlands, valleys, and on slopes.
Common Names
Some common names used to refer to Tilia americana L. var. neglecta include the American Linden, Basswood, Lime tree, Bee tree, Tilia, and Silver Linden. It is called the Basswood due to the flexibility of its inner bark, commonly used to make ropes and baskets; the Bee tree because it attracts bees with its fragrant flowers; and the Silver Linden for its lustrous foliage.
Uses
The Tilia genus has been used for various medicinal and practical purposes; the Tilia americana L. var. neglecta, in particular, is known for its practical uses. Native Americans and early settlers of North America utilized different parts of the tree to create a variety of products such as cordage, baskets, containers, ropes, and mats. Woodworkers used the tree's wood because of its ease of working and its lightness, making it suitable for carving, furniture making, and producing musical instruments. The tree's bark and leaves were also used by indigenous peoples and by some modern herbalists for treating colds, coughs, fever, and other ailments, while the flowers were used for their calming properties.
General Appearance
Tilia americana L. var. neglecta is a tall, deciduous tree that can grow up to 23-30 meters in height. The tree's bark is gray-brown, deeply furrowed, and diamond-shaped. The leaves are simple, broadly heart-shaped with an acute tip, and serrated margins. The leaves' upper surface is dark green, while the bottom is pale green. The tree's flowers possess a pleasant aroma and are borne on drooping cymes. The fruits of the Tilia americana L. var. neglecta are nut-like and are attached to a papery, wing-like structure that helps in their dispersal by the wind.
Growth Conditions for Tilia americana L. var. neglecta (Spach) Fosberg
Light: Tilia americana L. var. neglecta typically prefers partial to full sun exposure. It can tolerate shade but may not grow as vigorously or produce as many flowers.
Temperature: This plant is native to eastern North America and is adapted to a variety of temperature conditions. It can tolerate cold winters and hot summers, but prefers temperate conditions. The ideal temperature range for Tilia americana L. var. neglecta falls between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil: Tilia americana L. var. neglecta grows best in moist, well-draining soils. This plant is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but prefers soils that are rich in nutrients. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 being ideal.
Water: Adequate moisture is necessary for the best growth of Tilia americana L. var. neglect. However, the soil should not be waterlogged or poorly drained, as this can lead to root rot. Regular watering during the growing season is necessary, but the plant can withstand periods of drought once established.
Fertilizer: Tilia americana L. var. neglecta benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended, with a ratio of 10-10-10 being ideal. Fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the base of the plant, being careful not to let it come into contact with the leaves or stem.
Cultivation Methods
Tilia americana L. var. neglecta is a hardy tree that thrives in a wide range of soil types and climatic conditions. The best time to plant the tree is in early spring or late fall, when the soil is moist and temperatures are cooler. The ideal location for planting the tree is in a well-draining area with full sun exposure.
The planting depth of the tree should be adequate, with the root ball fully covered by soil. After planting, the tree should be watered well and mulched to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering Needs
While the tree is young, it requires frequent watering, especially during dry spells. Once established, the tree can survive on natural rainfall.
When watering, it is essential to avoid waterlogging the soil, which can lead to root rot. Instead, water slowly and deeply at the base of the tree, ensuring that moisture reaches the roots.
Fertilization
Fertilizer application is not necessary for Tilia americana L. var. neglecta as it can survive on the nutrients present in the soil. However, adding a balanced fertilizer during planting can help the tree establish itself quicker. Overfertilization can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development, leading to a weakened tree.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to encourage proper growth and shape, remove damaged or diseased branches, and improve air circulation. The best time to prune the tree is during its dormant season in late winter or early spring.
When pruning, it is essential to use sharp and clean tools to avoid damaging the tree. It is also vital to make clean cuts close to the branch collar, leaving no stubs that can decay and attract pests.
Propagation of Tilia americana L. var. neglecta (Spach) Fosberg
Tilia americana L. var. neglecta (Spach) Fosberg, commonly known as the linden tree, can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Tilia americana L. var. neglecta can be collected from the tree during its fruiting season and planted in pots filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of ΒΌ inch and kept moist till germination. Germination usually takes around 14 days to one month. This method results in a high genetic variability among seedlings.
Cuttings Propagation
The linden tree can also be propagated through cuttings. Hardwood cuttings of around 8-10 inches long can be taken from the tree during its dormant season (late fall to early spring). The leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting, and rooting hormone should be applied to the bottom. The cuttings should be planted in soilless or well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Sucker Propagation
Tilia americana L. var. neglecta is known to produce suckers, which are shoots that emerge from the base of the tree. These suckers can be dug up during the tree's dormant season and transplanted to a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Tilia americana L. var. neglecta (Spach) Fosberg
Tilia americana L. var. neglecta (Spach) Fosberg is a tree that is generally easy to grow and maintain. However, like all plants, it can be subject to a range of diseases and pests. The following are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Cankers: Cankers are small, localized areas of dead bark on a tree. They can be caused by a range of factors, including fungal and bacterial infections, injuries, and environmental stress. To manage cankers, it is essential to keep the tree healthy and prevent injuries, as these can provide an entry point for pathogens. Keeping the soil around the tree moist and mulching can also help reduce stress in the tree and prevent infections.
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are small, circular areas of dead tissue that can occur on the leaves of a tree. They are usually caused by fungal and bacterial infections, and they can lead to defoliation and reduced growth. To manage leaf spots, it is essential to keep the tree healthy and remove any fallen leaves from around the tree. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the infection.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of a tree, leading to reduced growth and eventual death. It is often caused by poor soil drainage or overwatering. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and not watered excessively. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of a tree. They can cause distorted growth, reduced vigor, and in severe cases, defoliation. To manage aphids, it is essential to encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. Insecticidal soap can also be used for more severe infestations.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the bark of a tree. They can be difficult to manage as they often go unnoticed until they have caused significant damage. To manage scale insects, it is essential to remove any dead wood from around the tree, as this can provide a habitat for the insects. Insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can also be used to control the infestation.
Borers: Borers are larvae of various types of beetles and moths that burrow into the bark and wood of a tree. They can cause significant damage, leading to reduced growth and eventual death. To manage borers, it is essential to keep the tree healthy and prevent injuries to the bark, as these can provide entry points for the insects. Insecticides can also be used to control the infestation, but they are often ineffective once the larvae have burrowed into the tree.
