Saskatoon serviceberry

Shrub to small tree, 1-5 m tall, bark smooth and dark gray to reddish, often spreads by rhizomes or rooting ends of branches, forming dense colonies.

Short description of the species

Botanical name

Saskatoon serviceberry

Latin name

Amelanchier alnifolia

Family

Rosaceae

Origin

temperate areas of the northern hemisphere

Crop classification

miscellaneous fruit, berry fruit

Growing shape

shrub

Spacing

3,5-4,5 m x 1,0-1,8 m

Soil type

unpretentious, fertile, well-drained soil

Soil pH

slightly acidic to neutral pH

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Interesting

In addition to being a food source, early settlers on the North American prairies used the berries for disinfection and to prevent miscarriage. A tea made from the twigs and leaves has been used to treat diabetes.

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Usage

Above all as fresh fruit, such as syrup, cakes, jams, spreads, jellies, bakery products, cereals, wines, ciders, beers, snacks and ice cream.

Suitable growing locations 

It prefers full sun to partial shade and moderate temperatures. It requires regular watering, especially in dry periods, but the soil must be allowed to partially dry out between individual waterings. Otherwise, this shrub has no special demands for water beyond normal rainfall and is relatively resistant to drought. In longer periods of drought that last more than two weeks or more than a week with daily temperatures above 30°C, a stronger watering up to the roots is necessary. Prolonged drought can affect berry production. The plant thrives in moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme temperatures. This plant prefers well-drained loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in fertile, well-drained soils. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. 

Growing technology

It flowers in May or June and the flowering period is relatively short, only about one week and even shorter in windy or too hot weather. It takes several years for the bushes to start flowering. The flowers develop on shoots that are two to four years old, and in terms of cutting, there is no need to do anything until then. Prune before the start of bearing should be kept to a minimum, do not remove any shoots, unless it is necessary, so that you do not accidentally remove flowering shoots. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended. Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins and again in mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and health of the plant. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased or crossing shoots to improve air circulation and light penetration. 

Suitable varieties

Northline, Smoky, Martin, Lamarckii

Diseases and pests

diseases: rust, powdery mildew, rose blight

pests: American spinner, large-headed nun