White Ash Fraxinus americana 'Autumn Purple'

Water

The White Ash tree should be watered thoroughly once a week, especially during its first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Mature trees are more drought-tolerant and may require less frequent watering. When watering, aim to provide deep watering that allows the soil to moisten to a depth of 6-8 inches. Typically, this equates to about 1-2 inches of water, which can be around 15-30 gallons for a young tree. Adjust the amount during periods of excessive heat or drought, ensuring that the tree receives additional water to compensate for greater evaporation.

Light

White Ash trees prefer full sun conditions and should be planted in a spot where they receive a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They thrive under bright, unfiltered light which promotes healthy growth and optimal fall coloration of its leaves.

Temperature

White Ash trees are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, typically thriving in zones 4 through 9. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -30°F and are comfortable during the summer in temperatures up to 90°F. The ideal temperature range for this tree is between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth and health.

Pruning

White Ash trees should be pruned to remove dead or damaged branches, which promotes healthy growth and reduces the risk of disease. Prune during the dormant season in late winter to early spring before new growth starts. Annual or biennial pruning is usually sufficient to maintain shape and health. It's also the time to correct any structural issues.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

White Ash 'Autumn Purple' thrives best in a well-drained loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix could include garden soil, compost, and leaf mold to enhance fertility and drainage.

Repotting

White Ash 'Autumn Purple' is a large tree and not typically potted; therefore, repotting is not applicable. Once planted outdoors, it does not need repotting but may require transplanting as it grows.

Humidity & Misting

White Ash 'Autumn Purple' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels outdoors and does not require specific humidity conditions to thrive.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  White Ash 'Autumn Purple' is not suitable for indoor growth.

• Outdoor

  Plant White Ash 'Autumn Purple' in full sun and well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Fraxinus americana 'Autumn Purple', commonly known as the White Ash 'Autumn Purple', begins with seed germination, occurring in spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are suitable. This is followed by the seedling stage, where the plant establishes a root system and juvenile leaves. As the tree enters the sapling stage, it experiences rapid vertical growth and starts developing a more extensive branch structure. The tree reaches maturity over several years, characterized by a full crown of leaves that turn purple in the fall. During its reproductive phase, mature White Ash 'Autumn Purple' trees produce flowers followed by samaras, or winged seeds, which disperse to propagate new trees. Finally, after decades or even centuries, the tree enters senescence, its growth and reproductive output decline until it eventually dies.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Winter-Early Spring

• The most popular method for propagating the Autumn Purple Ash (Fraxinus americana 'Autumn Purple') is through seed collection and sowing. Seeds ripen in the late fall, and collecting them as soon as they mature ensures the best germination rate. Once collected, the seeds typically require a period of cold stratification to mimic the winter conditions necessary to break dormancy. This involves mixing the seeds with slightly moist sand and storing them in a refrigerator for one to two months. Afterward, the seeds are sown in the spring, either directly in the ground where they are to grow or in pots to be transplanted later. It's important to maintain consistently moist soil until the seedlings have established themselves. This method of seed propagation helps maintain some of the parent tree's characteristics but there might be some variation due to genetic diversity.