Common hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

The Common hackberry should be watered once a week in the first year following planting. After they have been established, these trees are considered to be flood tolerant and drought tolerant. After becoming established, the trees only need supplemental watering if there has been a hot, dry spell of weather. In that case, a deep soaking of the soil is warranted.

Fertilization

The common hackberry should be fertilized if it has been planted in nutrient-poor soil. If the tree has been planted in nutrient-rich soil, fertilization is not required for optimal growth. In nutrient-poor soil, application of liquid or granular fertilizer once during the spring season is sufficient to feed this species.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

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Common hackberry

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Hardiness Zones

3 to 9

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Fall, Early winter

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Questions About Common hackberry

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What's the best method to water my Common hackberry?

You might want to put a garden hose at the plant base to ensure that you're promoting excellent root development. Avoid directly spraying the leaves, and know that the leaves will require more watering if they are outdoors and facing direct sunlight. You can also use bubblers that you can put on to each plant to moisten the roots. Also, use soaker hoses that can cover the entire garden or bed when adding or removing plants to push the roots deeply. Drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering. Water at ground level to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, you might want to spray the entire bush with water. Whether potted or in-ground, please remember Common hackberry prefers deep watering over light sprinkling.

What should I do if I water Common hackberry too much/too little?

An overwatered Common hackberry can start to have leaves that turn yellow, drop off and wilt. The plant can also look dull and unhealthy, with signs of mushy stems. When they are beginning to show these signs, it's best to adjust your schedule whenever possible.

The wilting can also be a sign of under watering as well. You might see that the leaves begin to turn crispy and dry while the overwatered ones will have soft wilted leaves. Check the soil when it is dry and watering is not enough, give it a full watering in time. Enough water will make the Common hackberry recover again, but the plant will still appear dry and yellow leaves after a few days due to the damaged root system. Once it return to normal, the leave yellowing will stop .

Always check the moisture levels at the pot when you have the Common hackberry indoors. Avoid overwatering indoors and see if there are signs of black spots. If these are present, let the soil dry in the pot by giving it a few days of rest from watering.

Overwatering can lead to root rot being present in your plant. If this is the case, you might want to transfer them into a different pot, especially if you see discolored and slimy roots. Always prevent root rot as much as possible, and don't let the soil become too soggy.

You should dig a little deeper when you plant your Common hackberry outdoors. When you check with your fingers and notice that the soil is too dry, it could mean underwatering. Adequate watering is required to help the plant recover.

How often should I water my Common hackberry?

The Common hackberry likes deep and infrequent watering. You would want to soak them in a gallon of water each time, especially when they are planted in pots. The water storage of flower pots is limited and the soil will dry out faster. Watering is required every 3 to 5 days when living in a cold region. Water it early in the morning when the soil is dry, outdoors or indoors. You can also determine if watering is needed by checking the soil inside. When the top 2-3 inches of soil is dry, it is time to give the plant a full watering. During hot days, you may need to check the moisture daily, as the heat can quickly dry out the soil in the pot.

Irrigation of the soil is also required if you have a garden. When you live in a hot climate, you might want to water once a week. Only water when you notice that about 2 to 3 inches of soil become too dry outdoors or indoors. Consider the amount of rainwater on the plant and ensure not to add to it to prevent root rot.You may not need additional watering of the plants if there is a lot of rainfall.Common hackberry generally grows during spring and fall. When they are outdoors, you need to add mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep to conserve more water.

You need to water the plants more frequently in sandy soil because this type tends to drain faster. However, with the clay one, you need to water this less frequently where you could go for 2-3 days to dry the plant and not develop any root rot. You could mark the date on the calendar whenever you water and when you notice that the leaves are starting to droop. This can mean that you might be a day late.

How much water do I need to give my Common hackberry?

The Common hackberry generally needs about a gallon of water each schedule,With the potted plants, you might want to water them deeply until you see that the water is dripping at the bottom of the pot. Then, wait for the soil to dry before watering them again. You can use a water calculator or a moisture meter to determine the amount you've given to your plant in a week. Provide plenty of water, especially in the flowering period, but let the moisture evaporate afterwards to prevent root rot.

If Common hackberry is planted outdoor with adequate rainfall, it may not need additional watering. When Common hackberry is young or newly planted, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As Common hackberry continues to grow, it can survive entirely on rainfall. Only when the weather is too hot, or when there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving Common hackberry a full watering during the cooler moment of the day to prevent the plant from suffering from high heat damage. Additional watering will be required during persistent dry spells.

Should I adjust the watering frequency for my Common hackberry according to different seasons or climates?

The Common hackberry needs outdoors come from rain, with only persistent dry weather requiring watering. Throughout the spring and fall growing seasons, the soil needs to be kept moist but not soggy, and alternating dry and moist soil conditions will allow the Common hackberry to grow well. Throughout the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate too quickly, and if there is a lack of rainfall, you will need to water more frequently and extra to keep it moist.

Usually, the Common hackberry will need less water during the winter. Since the Common hackberry will drop their leaves and go dormant, you can put them into a well-draining but moisture-retentive soil mixture like the terracotta to help the water evaporate quicker. Once your Common hackberry growing outdoors begins to leaf out and go dormant, you can skip watering altogether and in most cases Common hackberry can rely on the fall and winter rains to survive the entire dormant period.

After the spring, you can cultivate your Common hackberry and encourage it to grow and bloom when the temperature becomes warmer.This plant is not generally a fan of ponding or drought when flowering. You must ensure that the drainage is good at all times, especially during the winter.

When the plant is in a pot, the plant has limited root growth. Keep them well-watered, especially if they are planted in pots during summer. They don't like cold and wet roots, so provide adequate drainage, especially if they are still growing.

It's always best to water your Common hackberry’s diligently. Get the entire root system into a deep soak at least once or twice a week, depending on the weather. It's best to avoid shallow sprinkles that reach the leaves since they generally encourage the growth of fungi and don't reach deep into the roots. Don't allow the Common hackberry’s to dry out completely in the fall or winter, even if they are already dormancy.

Don't drown the plants because they generally don't like sitting in water for too long. They can die during winter if the soil does not drain well. Also, apply mulch whenever possible to reduce stress, conserve water, and encourage healthy blooms.

What should I be careful with when I water my Common hackberry in different seasons, climates, or during different growing periods?

If planting in the ground, Common hackberry mostly relies on rain. However, if there is no rainfall for 2-3 weeks, you may need to give proper consideration to giving the plants a deep watering. If watering Common hackberry in summer, you should try to do it in the morning. A large temperature difference between the water temperature and the root system can stress the roots. You need to avoid watering the bushes when it's too hot outside. Start mulching them during the spring when the ground is not too cold.

The age of the plants matter. Lack of water is one of the most common reasons the newly planted ones fail to grow. After they are established, you need to ease off the watering schedule.

Reduce watering them during the fall and winter, especially if they have a water-retaining material in the soil. The dry winds in winter can dry them out, and the newly planted ones can be at risk of drought during windy winter, summer, and fall. Windy seasons mean that there's more watering required. The ones planted in the pot tend to dry out faster, so they need more watering. Once you see that they bloom less, the leaves begin to dry up.

Potted plants are relatively complex to water and fluctuate in frequency. Always be careful that the pot-planted plant don't sit in the water. Avoid putting them in containers with saucers, bowls, and trays. Too much watering in the fall can make the foliage look mottled or yellowish. It's always a good idea to prevent overwatering them regardless of the current climate or season that you might have. During the months when Common hackberry begins to flower, you might want to increase the watering frequency but give it a rest once they are fully grown.

Give them an adequate amount of water once every 3 to 5 days but don't give them regular schedules. Make sure the soil is dry by sticking your finger in the pot, or use a moisture meter if you're unsure if it's the right time. Too much root rot can cause them to die, so be careful not to overwater or underwater regardless of the climate or season you have in your area.

Why is watering my Common hackberry important?

Watering the Common hackberry helps transport the needed nutrients from the soil to the rest of the plant. The moisture will keep this species healthy if you know how much water to give. The watering requirements will depend on the weather in your area and the plant's soil.

The Common hackberry thrives on moist soil, but they can't generally tolerate waterlogging. Ensure to provide enough mulch when planted on the ground and never fall into the trap of watering too little. They enjoy a full can of watering where the water should be moist at the base when they are planted in a pot to get the best blooms.

If they are grown as foliage, you need to water them up to a depth of 10 to 20 inches so they will continue to grow. If it's raining, refrain from watering and let them get the nutrients they need from the rainwater.

Is pruning necessary for my Common hackberry?

Despite having a relatively fast habit of growth, Common hackberry does not require very much pruning. It is not necessary to routinely prune this tree, however, it does require some pruning every once in a while. Pruning can be done to tidy this tree up and remove any diseased or damaged foliage. Or Common hackberry can be pruned for shaping.

When is the best time to prune my Common hackberry?

Common hackberry should be pruned as needed. Typically, these trees should be pruned to remove any damaged, yellowing, dying, or dead foliage. It is also necessary to prune this plant to remove any shoots that are congested or are crossing. The best time to prune Common hackberry is between late winter to early spring. This is the period when pruning causes the least damage to the plant.

How can I prune my Common hackberry?

Pruning Common hackberry is a fairly easy task if you know what to look for. To prune these trees, you will need a pair of sharp pruning shears. Using your pruning shears, remove any damaged or diseased parts of the tree. Keep an eye out for any shoots that are becoming congested or are beginning to cross and remove them. Ideally, you should steer clear from pruning any of the tree’s lower limbs. Leaving these intact will allow the tree to have a more natural and open form. Additionally, leaving the lower limbs alone will help to prevent any disease-inducing stress, as well as suckers from forming.

What should I do after pruning my Common hackberry?

There are no special requirements to follow after you have pruned your Common hackberry. It is recommended, however, that you dispose of any diseased foliage that has been removed from the tree away from any other plants. This is to avoid spreading the disease to other plants. After pruning your Common hackberry, you may apply a fertilizer treatment to encourage faster growth. Do not water the plants immediately after pruning as this can lead to fungal infestation of the plants through the wounds.

What should I be careful with when pruning my Common hackberry during different growing stages?

The best time to prune Common hackberry is between late winter to early spring. This is the period when pruning causes the least damage to the plant. Keep an eye out for any shoots that are becoming congested or are beginning to cross and remove them. Ideally, you should steer clear from pruning any of the tree’s lower limbs. Leaving these intact will allow the tree to have a more natural and open form. This will increase ventilation and light, reduce disease infection and allow Common hackberry to grow more vigorously. When pruning branches you need to leave the strong ones and remove the weak ones, keeping healthy auxiliary branches that grow outwards at about 45 degrees. Branches that are too angled or too small should be removed. Pruning Saw is required if the branch is more than three quarters of an inch in size, pruning should be done in the direction of the "Branch bark ridge" to the "Branch collar" to allow for good healing. Branches that require a saw need to be pruned using the "three-cut method", which prevents the bark of the branch from tearing and creating cracks in the trunk, which can be detrimental to the recovery of the plant. Finally, you may prefer to just trim off dead or damaged portions of the plant to keep it looking its best as if it's possible. This can be done at any time of year. Diseased or damaged stems should be cut right at the soil line and removed completely.

Are there any tips for pruning my Common hackberry?

The best thing to remember about Common hackberry is that they do not require routine pruning. Your tree will likely grow better if you prune it as and when it is necessary and no more than that. Additionally, you should also keep in mind that it is better to leave the lower limbs of this tree alone to prevent stress-induced diseases from attacking your tree. Different diameter branches require different pruning tools. If the tree is too tall, pruning needs to be done safely or by a professional.

How much/long should Common hackberry get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Common hackberry receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Common hackberry need?

Common hackberry does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Common hackberry? How to protect Common hackberry from the sun and heat damage?

Common hackberry planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Common hackberry during extreme weather events.

Does Common hackberry need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Common hackberry from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Common hackberry, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Common hackberry to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Common hackberry gets inadequate sunlight?

When Common hackberry receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Common hackberry receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Common hackberry need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Common hackberry and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Common hackberry fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Common hackberry?

Recently transplanted Common hackberry will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Common hackberry drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Common hackberry that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for Common hackberry?

The best temperature for Common hackberry to thrive is 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature tolerable would be 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15℉(-10℃). This species is tolerant of low temperatures and will survive freezing winters. The perfect, highest, and lowest temperature range:

Perfect：65~80℉(18~27℃)

Highest：85~95℉(30~35℃)

Lowest：-5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below

Should I adjust the temperature for Common hackberry during different growing phases?

Research shows that Common hackberry will begin to exhibit signs of stunted growth during prolonged periods of higher temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. Keeping the temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃), will encourage vigorous growth after germination or transplanting.

How can I keep Common hackberry warm in cold seasons?

Common hackberry can withstand freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that don’t get below of 15℉(-10℃) as an extreme temperature during the winter months. But if planted in pots or containers, then their roots must be protected from the winter cold. Do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it inside where it will be fully protected from the elements.

What damage will Common hackberry suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Greater harm will come to Common hackberry if the temperature is consistently too high versus too low.

If Common hackberry gets too hot, seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency is lessened due to hormone triggers caused by heat stress. The plant will show signs through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially death.

If Common hackberry gets too cold, plant functions such as nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will cease, resulting in the possible death of the plant. If a single freezing event occurs during the growing season, then a membrane phase transition might occur, which can cause a cease in plant functions and death of the plant.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Common hackberry?

Keeping the soil temperature consistent is one of the most important strategies to keeping Common hackberry healthy, which leads to successful budding, flowering, and new growth. Do this by consistently watering, adding mulch to bare soil, and planting in the shade.

How can I keep Common hackberry warm without a heat pad?

Due to the cold tolerance of Common hackberry, heating pads will not be necessary if planted outside in the ground. If the plant is in an outdoor pot, then bring it inside a heated house and place it in a sunny window during the winter months.

How can I provide Common hackberry with an adequate temperature condition?

To ensure adequate temperature conditions are present, plant Common hackberry in an area with partial shade. If possible, use afternoon shade to provide the best protection during the hottest part of the day. This will also result in lower temperatures in the soil due to increased moisture retention. If Common hackberry is planted indoors, then keep the container away from windows and out of direct sunlight during the summer months to prevent the soil temperature from spiking daily.

How can I save Common hackberry from temperature damage?

During the summer or times of high heat, give Common hackberry extra shade and water to help cool its leaves, roots, and soil. During cold snaps or growing season freezes, cover sensitive budding vegetation with frost cloth or water using sprinkler systems. If it’s only nearing freezing temperatures for a short period, then water during the day several hours before the freeze. If the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, then keep the sprinkler running until the temperature rises above freezing the following day.

Should I adjust the temperature for Common hackberry in different seasons?

Common hackberry is a mid-temperature plant that can easily tolerate the typical fluctuations of the seasons and remain a hardy species when planted in maintained landscapes areas, containers, or indoors. Therefore, adjusting the temperature during the different seasons is unnecessary for primary growth. If flowering is stunted or impeded, then allowing the plant to experience a season of winter freeze could help to revive flowering.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Common hackberry?

If it becomes too difficult to lower the temperature for an indoor plant during the summer, then plant it outside in the ground or in a container. Make sure to plant Common hackberry in a shaded location and water often to keep the soil moist.

Why do I need to fertilize my Common hackberry?

Regardless of which kind of Common hackberry you own, regular fertilization will help you grow a plant that has great overall health. The proper supply of nutrients leads to more vigorous growth and can help your Common hackberry be more resilient to tough growing conditions while also gaining a better ability to fight off diseases and pests.

The foliage of your Common hackberry is one of its most attractive features, which is why you should do all you can to keep it intact. Again, this means creating and adhering to a regular fertilization schedule that is specific to your Common hackberry. Doing so will prompt your Common hackberry to develop leaves with a deep color and a lush overall look.

When is the best time to fertilize my Common hackberry?

The first time that you should fertilize your Common hackberry is during the late winter or early spring. This type of fertilization gives your Common hackberry all the nutrients it needs to resume healthy growth once the weather gets warm enough.

It is also beneficial to many Common hackberry to provide an additional fertilizer feeding during early fall if you in a warm climate region. Fertilizing in early fall not only adds additional nutrients to the soil, which your Common hackberry will use in the following growing season, but it also helps your Common hackberry be a bit more hardy and capable of surviving the winter cold without experiencing foliage damage. Earlier fertilisation will ensure that the new branches have enough time to grow to withstand the cold winter.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Common hackberry?

There are a few times during the year when you should not fertilize your Common hackberry. The first time occurs during the early and mid-winter months, during which time your Common hackberry will be dormant and in no need of feeding.

It is also unwise to fertilize this plant during the late spring and all of the summer. During that time of year, the weather will likely be hotter and can be much dryer as well. Both conditions make it more likely that your Common hackberry will have a very negative response to fertilization. To avoid such issues, stick to a fertilization schedule that involves feeding exclusively during early spring and early fall.

What type of fertilizer does my Common hackberry need?

In most cases, the most important nutrient for a Common hackberry is nitrogen, but that does not mean that phosphorus and potassium are unimportant. On the contrary, your Common hackberry likely needs a decent amount of all three main nutrients, which is why a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, can work well.

However, a more nuanced ratio of nutrients often leads to optimal growth for a Common hackberry. Often, fertilizers that are a bit higher in nitrogen work a bit better. For example, a ratio of 10-6-4 can often work well. When fertilizing, you can use a granular fertilizer or a liquid-based one.

How do I fertilize my Common hackberry?

To fertilize your Common hackberry using a granular fertilizer, all you need to do is sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil at the correct time. The slow-release nature of granular fertilizer will release nutrients into the soil slowly over time. As is usually the case, it's best to water your Common hackberry, at least lightly, before applying fertilizer.

As an alternative, you can use a liquid fertilizer, but this is less common. To use this approach, mix your fertilizer with water, then pour the water onto the soil around the base of your Common hackberry. At times, it is beneficial to perform a soil test before fertilizing to see if you will need to alter the pH at all.

What happens if I fertilize my Common hackberry too much?

Overfertilization is always a risk when you are feeding a Common hackberry. Overfertilization is especially likely if you feed this plant at the wrong time of year, feed it too often, or feed it without watering the soil first.

When overfertilization takes place, your Common hackberry may begin to develop brown leaves. Your Common hackberry can also show stunted growth in some cases. On the other hand, it is also possible that too much fertilizer can prompt your Common hackberry to rapidly produce too much new growth, much of which will be weak and prone to breaking. Weak new wood can also detract from the overall form and structure of your Common hackberry.

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More About How-Tos

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Feng shui direction

East

The common hackberry embodies robust energy, aligning favorably with Eastern-facing directions, traditionally linked to family and health in Feng Shui. This connection may foster a harmonious environment. Yet, as with all Feng Shui applications, interpretations are individual and might vary.

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Common hackberry thrives in various regions across North America, particularly in the eastern and central parts of the continent. It is commonly found in woodlands, floodplains, and along riverbanks. This plant's native environment suggests that it prefers a moderate to high level of moisture. It is adapted to regular rainfall in its natural habitat, so it's important to provide consistent watering to mimic these conditions. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not excessively wet.

Lighting

Full sun

The common hackberry has a substantial need for light exposure for healthy growth, favoring locations where it basks in the sun's rays throughout the day. Despite this, it shows a capacity to endure places where sunlight is interspersed with shade. Excessive or deficient light can potentially harm the plant, altering its growth and overall health.

Temperature

-30 38 ℃

The common hackberry is native to regions with temperate climates and requires temperatures ranging from 32 to 95 ℉ (0 to 35 ℃) to thrive. During colder seasons, it is best to avoid temperatures below 32 ℉ (0 ℃) and protect the plant from frost. In hotter months, the plant can handle temperatures as high as 95 ℉ (35 ℃).

Transplant

40-60 feet

The prime time to transplant common hackberry is from late spring to midsummer, as warmth and longer daylight hours promote healthy root establishment. Choose a location with well-draining soil and ensure moderate sunlight exposure. If needed, provide additional watering after transplanting for optimal growth.

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Common hackberry based on 10 million real cases

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

Longhorn beetles

The longhorn beetle is a medium- to large-sized insect with very long antennae and strong jaws. Both its adult and larval stages gnaw on tree trunks, leaving small, round holes.

Solutions: Some longhorn beetles species are native insects, and they cause little damage. Therefore, these don't warrant control. Other longhorn beetles species are invasive pests that were recently introduced from other areas. These species can cause a great deal of damage to hardwood trees. Apply an insecticide containing imidacloprid as a soil injection or trunk injection following product instructions. This will enter into new grow and kill adults who feed on foliage. This will not help save trees that are already infested with large amounts of larvae, but it will save trees located near an infested tree. Contact an arborist for best control practices regarding infected trees. To properly control longhorn beetles, all host plants in a given area must be treated. Contact a local extension agent or state agency. Tracking the spread of longhorn beetles is a key component of their control.

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Dry to moist and rich woods, river banks, rocky barrens

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Tree

Bloom Time

Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Yellow

Name story

Common hackberry

Hackberry is actually evolved from hagberry or Prunus padus and both of their berries look very similar. This plant is actually the most common plant in its genus, so it is called the common hackberry.

Symbolism

Nobility, pride, intelligence, optimism

Usages

Garden Use

Common hackberry might not be the most popular choice for ornamental gardens, but it's an exceptionally hardy tree that needs little care. Common hackberry makes for a good garden shade tree and is also used for pavements and avenues. It makes an interesting combination when grown with eastern redbud, American holly, and summersweet.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Hemp

Genus

Hackberries

Species

Common hackberry

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Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

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Common hackberry

Celtis occidentalis

Also known as: Beaverwood, Nettletree

Common hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is a medium-sized deciduous tree, native to North America. It looks similar to elms and some other hackberry trees at first glance, but you can distinguish it by looking at the bark - if it is verrucous and has corky texture, then it is probably common hackberry.

Hardiness Zones

3 to 9

Care Guide for Common hackberry

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

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Questions About Common hackberry

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What's the best method to water my Common hackberry?

What should I do if I water Common hackberry too much/too little?

How often should I water my Common hackberry?

How much water do I need to give my Common hackberry?

Should I adjust the watering frequency for my Common hackberry according to different seasons or climates?

What should I be careful with when I water my Common hackberry in different seasons, climates, or during different growing periods?

The age of the plants matter. Lack of water is one of the most common reasons the newly planted ones fail to grow. After they are established, you need to ease off the watering schedule.

Why is watering my Common hackberry important?

Is pruning necessary for my Common hackberry?

When is the best time to prune my Common hackberry?

How can I prune my Common hackberry?

What should I do after pruning my Common hackberry?

What should I be careful with when pruning my Common hackberry during different growing stages?

Are there any tips for pruning my Common hackberry?

How much/long should Common hackberry get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Common hackberry need?

Can sunlight damage Common hackberry? How to protect Common hackberry from the sun and heat damage?

Does Common hackberry need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Common hackberry from the sun?

What will happen if Common hackberry gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Common hackberry need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Common hackberry?

What is the optimal temperature for Common hackberry?

Should I adjust the temperature for Common hackberry during different growing phases?

How can I keep Common hackberry warm in cold seasons?

What damage will Common hackberry suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Common hackberry?

How can I keep Common hackberry warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Common hackberry with an adequate temperature condition?

How can I save Common hackberry from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Common hackberry in different seasons?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Common hackberry?

Why do I need to fertilize my Common hackberry?

When is the best time to fertilize my Common hackberry?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Common hackberry?

What type of fertilizer does my Common hackberry need?

How do I fertilize my Common hackberry?

What happens if I fertilize my Common hackberry too much?

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Common hackberry based on 10 million real cases

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

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Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Longhorn beetles

The longhorn beetle is a medium- to large-sized insect with very long antennae and strong jaws. Both its adult and larval stages gnaw on tree trunks, leaving small, round holes.

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Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Dry to moist and rich woods, river banks, rocky barrens

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Tree

Bloom Time

Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Yellow

Name story

Common hackberry

Symbolism

Nobility, pride, intelligence, optimism

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Hemp

Genus

Hackberries

Species

Common hackberry

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

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Related Plants

Columbine

Aquilegia yabeana

Christmas cactus

Schlumbergera bridgesii

Calla lily

Zantedeschia albomaculata subsp. albomaculata

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