Amelanchier alnifolia | Saskatoon Serviceberry | 5 Seeds

Amelanchier alnifolia, commonly known as Saskatoon serviceberry or western serviceberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America, particularly found in the northern and western regions. It typically grows between 6 to 20 feet tall with an upright, multi-stemmed form and smooth gray to reddish-brown bark. The leaves are oval with finely toothed margins, emerging with a soft, grayish-green color in spring and maturing to a deep green before turning yellow to reddish in fall. In early spring, it produces clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers before or just as the leaves emerge, attracting bees and other pollinators. These are followed by small, round, blue-purple berries that ripen in early to mid-summer and are sweet, edible, and high in nutrients, often used in jams, jellies, and baked goods. Amelanchier alnifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils but is adaptable to a variety of conditions, including drought and cold climates. It is valued both for its ornamental qualities and its ecological role, providing food and habitat for birds and wildlife. Zones 4-9GerminationTo germinate Amelanchier alnifolia seeds, First, warm stratify the seeds by placing them in a moist medium like peat moss or vermiculite at room temperature (around 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 90 days. Then, move the seeds to cold stratification by refrigerating them at 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit for another 90 to 120 days. After stratification, sow the seeds about a quarter inch deep in a well-draining soil mix and keep the medium moist but not waterlogged. Place the containers in a bright location with temperatures around 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Germination may take several weeks to a few months. Once seedlings have grown strong enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden in a sunny to partially shaded area with well-drained soil.