Fringe tree is a small deciduous tree originating from the eastern United States. Having another name called old man’s beard, this plant consists of female and male trees. The female ones are known to be able to produce blue black, olive-like fruit. For you who are interested in planting it, know how to care for this tree properly.
How to Take Care of Fringe Tree For Better Growth
Give More Sunlight Exposure
If you have planted fringe trees, you should know that this tree grows best in full sun or partial sun. Make sure you give the tree more exposure to sunlight if you want this tree to grow optimally. The more sunlight this tree gets, the more flowers grow on the tree.Water the Tree Regularly
The tree does not only need sunlight, but also enough water to be in a good condition. Just like any other tree, you need to water fringes regularly in the first several months after planting. Once established, you can give the tree moderate water.
Even though the tree would tolerate some drought, it won’t be able to thrive in a prolonged drought. Always water this plant before the soil around the roots has dried. Every time you water the plant, you should do it thoroughly and never let drought happen at its root depth.Pay Attention to the Temperature
Aside from getting more sun, the area where you have planted the tree should have the right temperature. Fringe trees are usually grown in temperate climates with mild winters and warm summers. So, the temperature that needs to be kept stable is 0 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Fringe tree care and treatment does not only focus on how to keep the tree warm. When summer comes, make sure your tree is in the area with the temperature below 35 degrees Celsius. Because when the temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius, the leaves’ color will turn lighter.
Beware of too high temperatures, because your plant would be more susceptible to sunburn. The risk of the tree becoming dry and withered is also higher. You need to pay attention to the temperature even if the tree is both heat and humidity tolerant.Fertilize the Tree
If you have used soil that has moderate to high fertility naturally to plant, you do not need to worry. However, if you are not sure about the soil type, you should start preparing the fertilizer. You also need to fertilize it when you already know that the soil fertility is naturally low.
Use an inch of compost for the fertilization process. Alternatively, you can read the label instructions of the fertilizer if you want to use the complete and balanced one. For the Chinese fringe tree, it is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer.Prune or Not
Fringe trees are basically easy to grow, because once it is established, it requires less maintenance. Pruning is seldom needed, but when it is required, you can do this right after the tree flowers. By doing this, you give the branches enough time to develop the next flower buds in the next year.
Fringe trees can easily be taken care of because there are no serious problems that can happen to the tree. If you live in urban areas or on the coast, you should not grow fringe trees. This plant has low tolerance to pollution and salt.