hawthorn

Hawthorn (Crataegus punctata 'Ohio Pioneer') is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant species that does best with moderate amounts of water. It should be watered deeply about once a week, or 4-6 times a month, during the hot summer months, and on a less frequent basis during cooler weather. To help it retain adequate moisture throughout the growing season, a 3-4 inch layer of mulch should be applied over the root area. Soil should be moistened 1-2 inches deep and allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Don’t forget to water from the base of the plant, not from the top.

Hawthorn (Crataegus punctata 'Ohio Pioneer') needs full sun to thrive. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day in the spring and summer and at least 4 hours in the fall and winter. Direct sunlight helps to stimulate growth and flowering, and is especially important for this plant species during the blooming season. Providing shaded areas or partial shade for protection from strong sun or extreme wind is also beneficial.

Pruning of hawthorn (Crataegus punctata 'Ohio Pioneer') should be done twice per year. The first pruning should occur in early spring just before new growth begins. This pruning should remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, as well as crossing or dead branches, and can be done more heavily if desired. The second pruning should occur in late summer, after flowering has finished. This pruning should be light and mainly focused on shaping the plant and encouraging more natural form. Any dead or crossing branches should also be removed. Because hawthorns are often grown as living fences, they should also have their canopies thinned as needed to allow for sunlight and air circulation.