Hawthorn trees (Crataegus) provide food for birds in spring and autumn, and shelter for nesting or roosting wildlife. They can be planted in groups or as a hedge.

Plant hawthorns from seeds or from rooted cuttings. For the best results, transplant in the spring or fall to avoid environmental stress.

HAWTHORN BASICS

Botanical name:

Crataegus

Zones:

3-9

Size:

Between 15 and 50 feet high, and between 8 and 35 feet in width, based on the variety

Forms:

Deciduous trees that have straight spreading or bushy forms Some species can be grown as bushes.

Exposure:

Full sun

Bloom Time:

Mid – to late spring

Flowers:

Five-petaled pink or white flowers look like the apple blossoms.

Foliage:

The leaves of the Hawthorn tree have a green color, with teeth, and typically lobed. They come in various shapes.

Fruit:

The fruit, which looks like rose hips are orange, red or black. Pomes are classified as the apples and pears, they are ripe in autumn and last through the winter. Pomes that are edible, and contain a variety of medicinal and culinary properties are also a significant diet for the robin waxwings and other songbirds.

Deer resistance:

Crataegus species are deer-resistant, but when they are hungry enough deer are able to forage on plants they normally won’t.

PLANTING HAWTHORN TREES

The best time to plant

Plant in the milder seasons of autumn or spring to prevent cold or heat stress.

Planting where:

Find a sunny location with a drainage-friendly soil.

What to do when you plant

Dig a hole for planting two to three times wider than that of the roots as well as deep. Include compost or manure in the hole to plant and then dig it into the soil. Tease roots out if they are potbound or cut multiple slits into the rootball. Plant in the hole, with its top slightly elevated from surrounding soil. The sides, but not necessarily the entire top of the rootball, with soil that is loose and then gently tap it down to eliminate air pockets. Rinse thoroughly, and then again or twice a week throughout the first growing season, until established. If needed plant young trees with stakes to protect them from wind and to ensure they grow straight.

*Note: It’s recommended to only add 10% manure or compost (by volume) to the soil since it could hinder good growth when the roots extend beyond the boundaries of “nice” soil and need to expand beyond it.

CARE & PRUNING

Watering:

Hawthorn is drought-tolerant once it is established. Regularly water during the first year as well as when it is in dry or prolonged heat times. Avoid overwatering, since this could lead to root rot, as well as other fungal illnesses.

Soil:

Hawthorns favor soil that is well-amended and drains quickly, yet is capable of surviving the clay and sand. The pH of the soil should range from 6.0 and 7.5. Poor drainage or a compacted soil could result in root mold.

Amendments & Fertilizer:

Hawthorns are a good light feeder. When they are in bloom, you can apply slow release fertilizer designed specifically for trees and shrubs in accordance with the directions. Mulch with pine straw, compost, and bark chip (keeping clear of the tree’s trunk) to retain moisture and to control the growth of weeds.

Pruning:

When pruning, be cautious to avoid injury by thorns. Wear gloves that are heavy as well as long sleeves and glasses to guard your eyes. In the late winter or the beginning of spring, take down damaged or diseased branches, and then shape them as required. Cut back suckers at the trunk’s base.

Pests and diseases:

The right practices in the field can help to prevent many issues. There are numerous insects and diseases that could affect hawthorns. However, certain species are more resistant than others. The most frequent and dangerous diseases is called fire blight. Other illnesses include leaf spot and cedar hawthorn hawthorn rust.powdery mildew as well as cankers as well as apple scab. Pests include caterpillars, borers and gall mites, lacebugs Aphids and leafminers scaling.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT HAWTHORN

With various sizes and varieties of hawthorn available Here are some helpful tips to think about:

To define borders, landscapes or other areas:

Pick varieties that fit the size of your yard. Based on their dimensions and shape, utilize as a focal point that is stand-alone such as hedges, screenings or as foundation plantings. It is also possible to plant them arranged on the ground or naturalized in meadow settings. Be sure to leave enough space for the plants to grow without getting overcrowded.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What Is Special About the Hawthorn Tree?

• Beautiful Blooms: Hawthorn trees produce clusters of delicate, white or pink flowers in spring, which are visually stunning and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Edible Berries: The tree produces small, red berries called haws, which are edible and often used in jellies, wines, and teas. They are also packed with antioxidants and have medicinal properties, particularly for heart health.
• Wildlife Support: Hawthorns are a haven for wildlife. Birds and small mammals eat the berries, and the dense branches provide shelter for nesting birds.
• Thorny Protection: The tree’s thorns make it an excellent natural barrier, deterring animals and intruders, which makes it useful for hedgerows and boundary plantings.

2. What Are the Disadvantages of Hawthorn Trees?

• Thorns: While useful for protection, hawthorn’s thorns can be a drawback if the tree is placed in high-traffic areas or near pathways, as they can cause injury.
• Susceptibility to Disease: Hawthorn trees can be prone to diseases such as rust, leaf spot, and fire blight, which can impact their health and appearance. Routine monitoring and treatment might be necessary.
• Messy Fruit Drop: The berries can drop and create a mess on the ground, which might require frequent cleaning to avoid attracting pests and creating slippery surfaces.
• Slow Growth: Hawthorn trees grow relatively slowly, which may not be ideal for those looking for quick-growing plants to fill a landscape.

3. What Is the Myth About the Hawthorn Tree?

• In folklore, the hawthorn tree is often associated with magic and mystery. It’s considered a fairy tree in Celtic mythology and is believed to be inhabited by fairies. Cutting down a hawthorn tree, particularly one that stands alone in a field, is thought to bring bad luck or anger the fairies.
• In some traditions, it’s also seen as a symbol of protection and love. In ancient Greece, hawthorn branches were used in wedding ceremonies, while in Celtic cultures, it was often planted near homes for good fortune and to protect against evil spirits.