Origin and Common Names
Hicoria arkansana (Sarg.) Ashe, commonly known as Arkansas shagbark hickory, is a deciduous tree species of the genus Hicoria. It is native to the eastern and central regions of the United States and is commonly found growing in the wild in the states of Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
General Appearance
The Arkansas shagbark hickory tree typically grows to a height of 50-80 feet and has an average spread of 30-50 feet. It has a narrow, oval-shaped crown and a single straight trunk that can grow up to 2-3 feet in diameter. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and has deep furrows and ridges that form a shaggy appearance. The leaves are pinnately compound and can be up to 12 inches long, with 5-7 leaflets. The foliage turns a bright yellow in the fall before dropping, creating a striking autumn display.
Uses
The wood of the Arkansas shagbark hickory tree is highly prized for its strength, hardness, and resilience. It is often used in furniture-making, flooring, tool handles, and sporting goods. The nuts of the tree are also edible and have been used by Native American tribes and early pioneers as a source of food. The nuts are typically harvested in the fall and can be eaten raw or roasted. Additionally, the tree is valued for its ornamental qualities and is sometimes planted as a shade tree in residential settings.
Growth Conditions for Hicoria arkansana
Light: Hicoria arkansana grows best in areas with full sunlight exposure. However, it can also tolerate partial shade.
Temperature: This plant species prefers warm temperatures ranging from 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20-30 degrees Celsius). It can survive freezing temperatures occasionally, but extended periods of cold will cause harm to the plant.
Soil: The plant requires a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. However, it is highly adaptable and can thrive in many different types of soil. It preferentially grows in deep, moist, and fertile soils that are neutral to slightly acidic in pH. The soil should be kept moist during the growing season.
Water: Hicoria arkansana requires moderate water levels. The plant likes moist soil but overwatering can damage the roots. It is also crucial to avoid standing water around the plant as it can cause damage to the roots.
Fertilizer: A balanced slow-release fertilizer is recommended for Hicoria arkansana. Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring. Avoid fertilization during the late summer or fall.
Pruning: Prune the plant during the dormant season to shape it and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
Cultivation Methods:
Hicoria arkansana, commonly known as the Arkansas shagbark hickory, is a deciduous tree found in various areas of the United States, including Arkansas, Missouri, and Texas. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay.
When planting, ensure that the soil is well-drained and loose. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and slightly shallower than the depth of the root ball. After planting, add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Watering Needs:
Young Hicoria arkansana trees need consistent and regular watering, especially during the first two years after planting. Ensure that the soil around the tree remains moist but not watered to the point of being waterlogged. Water deeply and infrequently, as shallow watering may encourage shallow root growth.
During the tree's active growing season, when the weather is dry, water once per week. In winter, when the tree is dormant, water once every three to four weeks.
Fertilization:
Hicoria arkansana typically does not require regular fertilization. However, if you notice the tree's growth is stunted, it may require additional nutrients. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer that is balanced in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the early spring before the tree actively starts growing. Avoid over-fertilization, as it may lead to the tree's decline.
Pruning:
Hicoria arkansana rarely requires pruning but may require some pruning to remove damaged or diseased limbs. Prune only in winter when the tree is dormant to prevent the spread of diseases and avoid pruning during the growing season to avoid damaging the tree.
When pruning, use clean and sharp tools to make clean cuts. Cut close to the branch collar but avoid cutting it. Avoid making flush cuts, as they take longer to heal and may cause further damage to the tree.
Propagation methods of Hicoria arkansana (Sarg.) Ashe
There are four main methods of propagating Hicoria arkansana, which include:
1. Seed propagation
This method involves collecting seeds from the plant and sowing them into a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 inches and kept moist until germination. It might take up to 1-2 years for the seedlings to reach transplant size.
2. Grafting
Grafting is another method of propagation, which is used to propagate cultivars. A rootstock from a wild-growing tree of the species is used, and a scion from the desired cultivar is grafted to it. This method produces a clone that is genetically identical to the parent plant.
3. Cuttings
This method of propagation involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant and rooting it in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be about 6-8 inches long with several leaf nodes. After removing the leaves from the bottom of the cutting, it should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in the soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and warm until roots develop, which can take up to several months.
4. Suckers
Hicoria arkansana also spreads by sending up suckers from the roots. These suckers can be divided from the parent plant and replanted in a new location. It is important to note that suckers should not be removed from the tree until they have their own well-established root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Hicoria arkansana (Sarg.) Ashe
Hicoria arkansana (Sarg.) Ashe, commonly known as the Arkansas shagbark hickory, is a deciduous tree that is highly susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management strategies can help protect the plant and improve its overall health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Hicoria arkansana is the hickory decline disease. This disease is caused by a combination of factors, including fungal pathogens, insect infestations, and environmental stressors. Symptoms of the disease include yellowing or wilting of the leaves, early leaf drop, and dieback of branches. The best way to manage hickory decline disease is to maintain the tree's overall health by providing adequate water and nutrients, pruning diseased branches, and controlling insect infestations.
Another disease that can affect Hicoria arkansana is the hickory anthracnose. This fungal disease causes leaf spots, defoliation, and cankers on the trunk and branches of the tree. To manage this disease, it is important to prune infected branches and remove fallen leaves to prevent the spread of the fungus. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Hicoria arkansana are the hickory bark beetle and the hickory weevil. These insects bore into the tree's bark and can cause significant damage to the tree's vascular system. Signs of infestation include sawdust around the base of the tree and small holes in the bark. To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the tree for signs of infestation and use insecticides when necessary.
The fall webworm is another pest that can affect Hicoria arkansana. These caterpillars form web-like nests in the branches of the tree and feed on the leaves, causing defoliation. To manage this pest, it is important to prune infected branches and remove fallen leaves to prevent the caterpillars from overwintering in the tree.
Conclusion
Proper disease and pest management strategies are essential for maintaining the health of Hicoria arkansana. Regular monitoring of the tree for signs of disease and pests, pruning infected branches, and controlling insect infestations are key to preventing significant damage and promoting the tree's overall health.
