Overview of Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles
Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles, commonly known as the Georgia Hackberry, is a deciduous tree species belonging to the family Cannabaceae. It is a subspecies of the more well-known Hackberry tree (Celtis occidentalis L.), with differing characteristics and geographical distribution.
Origin and Distribution
The Georgia Hackberry is native to the southeastern United States, specifically within the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. It is commonly found in forested areas and along riverbanks, and can grow up to 30 meters tall.
Common Names
In addition to its scientific name, Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles, the Georgia Hackberry is also known by several common names such as Southern Hackberry, Gulf Hackberry, and Georgia Sugarberry.
Appearance
The Georgia Hackberry differs from the Hackberry tree in several ways. It has a more narrow and pointed leaf than the Hackberry, with an asymmetrical base. Its bark is smooth and grey-brown, with corky ridges that develop with age.
Uses
The Georgia Hackberry is not commonly used for lumber due to its smaller size and the tendency for its wood to warp. However, the tree has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous communities, specifically as a remedy for fever and coughs. Birds are known to eat the fruit of the tree, and it is also a preferred host plant for the Cecropia moth.
Light Requirements
Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can affect its growth rate and form. When planting, choose a location with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the southeastern United States and is adapted to a range of temperatures. It can tolerate both hot and cold extremes, but it grows best in a temperature range of 65-85°F. Temperatures below 45°F can stress the plant, and frost can damage tender new growth.
Soil Requirements
Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6-7). The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Regular fertilization can also promote healthy growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles, commonly known as Georgia hackberry, is a deciduous tree that is relatively easy to cultivate. The plant can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy loam, clay, and limestone. It is also tolerant of both acidic and alkaline soils. The ideal site for planting should receive full sun or partial shade, have good drainage and be protected from strong winds.
Watering needs
The watering requirements of Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles will depend on a few factors, including the age of the plant, the soil type, and the weather conditions. Newly planted trees typically require frequent watering, especially during dry spells. Mature hackberry trees have deeper roots and can tolerate short periods of drought. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles does not require heavy fertilization. However, adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil around the base of the tree in the early spring can aid in providing nutrients to the plant. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer can be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this can damage the tree.
Pruning
Pruning of Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles is not necessary, and the tree can be left to grow naturally. However, it can be pruned to remove damaged or diseased branches or to control the size and shape of the tree. Pruning should be done during the dormant period in late winter or early spring to minimize stress on the tree. Care should be taken not to over-prune, as this can damage the tree and promote suckering.
Propagation Methods of Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles
Celtis occidentalis L. var. georgiana (Small) Ahles, commonly known as sugarberry or southern hackberry, belongs to the family Cannabaceae. It is a deciduous tree that is valued for its ornamental properties and is also used for its timber. Propagation of this plant is primarily through seeds and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Sugarberry seeds take approximately 60 days to germinate. Before sowing, the seeds should be stratified for three months in a moist medium at a temperature of around 4°C. This will break the seed dormancy and allow for better germination rates.
The seeds can then be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm, humid environment. The use of a bottom heat source can help to improve germination rates. The seedlings should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers. They can be moved to their permanent location when they are a year old.
Cutting Propagation
Sugarberry trees can also be propagated using both hardwood and softwood cuttings. Hardwood cuttings are taken in the winter when the plant is dormant. Softwood cuttings are taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be around 15-20cm long and taken from the current season's growth. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting them in a well-draining rooting medium.
The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they establish roots. The use of a bottom heat source can speed up the rooting process. Once they have rooted, the young plants can be transplanted into individual containers and then moved to their permanent location when they are a year old.
Disease Management
Like any other plant, Celtis occidentalis var. georgiana is susceptible to certain diseases. Some common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that infect the leaves, twigs, flowers, and fruits of the plant. It causes brown or black spots on the leaves, and can ultimately lead to defoliation of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove and discard all infected plant material. Also, avoid overhead watering and spray the plant with a fungicide to prevent the spread of the pathogens.
- Canker: Canker is caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens that attack the bark of the plant, forming sunken areas or lesions. The affected areas can crack and ooze sap. To manage canker, prune and remove all infected branches or stems. Dispose of the infected material to prevent the spread of the pathogens. Also, apply a bactericide or fungicide to protect the plant from further infection.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, stunted growth, and death of the plant. To manage root rot, use sterilized soil when planting new trees. Also, avoid over-watering and ensure proper drainage.
Pest Management
Celtis occidentalis var. georgiana is also susceptible to attack by pests. Some common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil to control the population.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are pests that feed on the sap of the plant and secrete a sticky substance known as honeydew. This can attract other pests, such as ants and sooty mold. To manage scale insects, prune and dispose of infected plant parts. Also, apply a horticultural oil to control the population.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are small pests that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. You can also apply insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil to control their population.
