Saskatoon
Botanically known as "Amelachier alnifolia", the Saskatoon is found growing in all parts of Canada. It is also known as Service Berry, Shadbush, Juneberry and Wild Pear. Berries are produced on large shrubs, which flower in May, and fruit is usually produced in July. The Saskatoon's main value is for its sweet fruit which has a unique almond flavor. It also has great value as an ornamental because of its showy flowers and spectacular fall colors.
One of the most frequent comments that we hear from the thousands of people we talk to across the prairies, is that wild Saskatoons are in a serious state of decline. This is due to a number of factors: grazing of cattle has increased tremendously which damages the bushes, stands are no longer cleansed by grass fires, and the increase in use of herbicides has damaged bushes. All of these factors have influenced the decline in wild Saskatoons.
The Saskatoon is a large, juicy berry that is very similar to the blueberry in size and texture, with its own distinctive taste. The name is derived from the Indian word Mis-sas-quah-to-min, which was later anglicized to Saskatoon. Saskatoons were one of the most important food sources for the Plain Indians. They believed the berry was a gift from the Great Creator and they used the Saskatoon plant and its fruit as a sacred item in many ceremonies. The berries were used in soups, stews, and meats, and they were also dried for winter use in pemmican.
Fun and Easy To Grow
The Saskatoon is fun and easy to grow. Hardy to Zone 1, they will establish readily and grow quickly. There is a place for Saskatoons on the farm and in the home garden all across Canada and Northern United States. For personal use, recommended planting is in the form of a hedge row much like raspberries would be planted. This could be done around a garden or field. This would serve a dual purpose: as a fruiting hedge and a wind break. What is more, your family would be able to pick a good volume of high quality fruit quickly and efficiently in your own backyard. A spacing of about 2 feet apart and a row about 50 feet long will provide ample fruit for the whole family. The Saskatoon is extremely adaptable and will grow in a wide range of climatic conditions and soil types.
Basic gardening care, including weed control and adequate moisture, should be all that is required to get the seedlings well established. A clean site free of perennial weeds and grasses is ideal. Saskatoon plants are available in mid-April.
Price List:
SASKATOON (1 YR. SEEDLINGS)
1-4 / $6.50 each
5-9 / $6.25 each
10 or more / $6.00 each
To order or to receive an Indiana
Berry & Plant Company Catalog call:
1-800-295-2226