How to Grow Hawthorn Trees

Hawthorn trees need full sun and well-drained soil. They tolerate almost any type of soil and variations in pH. Set the trees out in spring so they'll have a full season to become established before winter.

How long does a hawthorn tree take to grow?
Where do hawthorn trees grow best?
How do you start a hawthorn tree?
Can you keep a hawthorn tree small?
Do birds eat hawthorn berries?
Should I plant a hawthorn tree?
How much water does a hawthorn tree need?
Do hawthorn trees spread?
When can I plant a hawthorn tree?
Can I take cuttings from Hawthorn?
Is hawthorn tree poisonous?

How long does a hawthorn tree take to grow?

Growth rate of Hawthorn hedging

Crataegus monogyna is a very fast-growing shrub, achieving around 40 – 60cm growth per year, which explains the name Quickthorn!

Where do hawthorn trees grow best?

Hawthorns aren't too fussy over their position – they will grow in open, sunny sites or partial shade. They prefer a well-drained soil enriched with lots of organic matter, which holds plenty of moisture in spring and summer, doesn't dry out or become waterlogged.

How do you start a hawthorn tree?

Planting Hawthorn Trees

They are best planted in spring. Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the rootball. Set the tree in the hole so it sits 1 inch or so above the surrounding soil. Fill the hole half full with soil and add 2 gallons of water.

Can you keep a hawthorn tree small?

It is vital not to over-prune a hawthorn tree as this can stunt its growth, and you must never trim this tree until it is well established and at least 1.5 metres in height.

Do birds eat hawthorn berries?

As well as the many native berry-bearing species (including rowan, holly, whitebeam, spindle, dog rose, guelder rose, elder, hawthorn, honeysuckle and ivy), attractive shrubs like cotoneaster, pyracantha and berberis are especially good for a wide range of birds.

Should I plant a hawthorn tree?

How much water does a hawthorn tree need?

You need to provide each hawthorn with 10 to 15 gallons each time you water, moistening the soil to 12 inches out to the drip line. If the bush does not look vigorous at the beginning of its second summer season, continue the practice of weekly watering.

Do hawthorn trees spread?

This small tree spreads readily by seed into woodlands and open fields, often creating a dense, thorny thicket. Its abundant red berries are attractive to birds and other animals, which help spread this tree far beyond where it is planted.

When can I plant a hawthorn tree?

Hawthorns are best planted when dormant, from autumn to spring, as bare-root trees or hedging plants.

Can I take cuttings from Hawthorn?

Starting softwood cuttings is the easiest and most reliable way for home gardeners to propagate hawthorn. However, you can also take hardwood cuttings when the hawthorn is dormant in late autumn or early winter. The cuttings should be 8 to 10 inches long and 1/4 to 1 inch in diameter.

Is hawthorn tree poisonous?

There are no “poisonous” Hawthorns except for the seeds. Many Hawthorns, while not poisonous, are not palatable. Some improve with cooking. The genus has many medicinal uses and is known for its heart support and is actually a beta blocker.