Saskatoon Berries
Amelanchier alnifolia
Hardy to Zone 2
Saskatoons are very hardy, but sites with late spring frosts should be avoided. They do not have high nutrition requirements, although compost worked into the soil prior to planting will help maintain soil moisture while the plant establishes. A well drained soil and a pH of above 6.0 is preferred. The roots should be well covered and the soil firmed around the plant. Plants should be spaced 3-6 feet apart in rows, where they will grow to form a solid hedge. During the establishmnet year it is important to control weeds around the young plants.
Saskatoon berries will begin to bear fruit at 2-4 years of age. Fruit will ripen in late June at the ends of the branches. Most of the fruit is borne on healthy 2 to 3 year old wood. Plants generally will not require pruning until they are 7-9 years old. Then remove damaged, weaik, or crossed branches. Pruning should be done in early spring before growth begins.
