How to Grow & Care For Serviceberry Trees

Botanical name:

Amelanchier spp. and hybrids

Common names:

Downy serviceberry, juneberry, Saskatoon, shadbush, sugarplum

Origin:

Most species are native to temperate regions of the U.S. and Canada.

Plant type:

Can be classified as a deciduous tree or shrub, depending on the specific species and how it's grown.

Zones:

Typically 4-9, with some species hardy down to zone 2

Exposure:

Full sun to partial shade

Height/spread:

15 to 25 feet tall and wide

Bloom time:

In early spring, just before the leaves appear.

Foliage:

Leaves are typically oval or elliptical, emerging a reddish-bronze color in spring, turning dark green in summer, and finishing in fall with colors that range from golden yellow to scarlet red.

Flowers:

Five-petaled, star-shaped flowers are usually white, but are sometimes tinged with pink or yellow.

Landscape uses:

Specimen plant, shrub border, privacy screen or hedge, understory tree, woodland garden, bird-friendly garden

Fun fact:

At least 40 species of birds are known to eat serviceberries, including Baltimore orioles, cedar waxwings, cardinals, robins, eastern bluebirds, finches, and towhees. Not only will they return year after year to enjoy the sweet, nutrient-rich berries, they also play a crucial role in natural seed dispersal for serviceberry plants.

Berries on 'Autumn Brilliance' amelanchier. Photo by: Molly Shannon / Shutterstock

When to plant:

The optimal time to plant serviceberry is in early spring so it has time to establish roots before the heat of summer arrives. Otherwise, wait until early fall, when the temperatures are cooler and the soil is still warm enough for good root growth. Bare-root plants should be purchased and planted in early spring.

Where to plant:

Flowers and fruits most prolifically in a location that receives partial to full sun (at least 4 to 6 hours daily). Avoid planting in a site where stains from fruit drop will be problem, such as adjacent to a sidewalk or patio.

Soil:

Grows best in moderately fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, although it will also tolerate a neutral pH and sandy or clay soils. Do not plant in poorly drained soil, which can lead to root rot.

How to plant:

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. If your soil tends to retain water, incorporate some organic matter into the hole before planting to improve drainage and soil fertility. Place your serviceberry tree or shrub in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is at or slightly above ground level. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant to eliminate air pockets. After planting, water thoroughly to saturate the root ball and the surrounding soil. Learn more about how to plant shrubs.

Spacing:

If planting serviceberry in groups, space plants at least 15 feet apart, depending on their width at maturity, to prevent overcrowding.

Watering:

During the first year after planting, water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Once established, serviceberry trees and shrubs are fairly drought-tolerant, but should be watered during prolonged dry periods. For maximum fruit yield, keeping the soil consistently moist (but not waterlogged) is key.

Amendments and fertilizer:

When planted in fertile soil, serviceberry generally needs no additional fertilization. However, if your soil is poor, consider applying a balanced tree and shrub fertilizer in early spring, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. Adding compost or other organic matter to the soil is also beneficial and will help to enhance its fertility.

Mulch:

To help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch over the entire root zone of your serviceberry every year. Be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to prevent rot and damage from wood-boring insects.

Pruning:

During the first 3 years after planting, prune only to remove weak or damaged branches. After that, you can prune more aggressively to shape your serviceberry tree or shrub into the form you like. It’s also a good idea to prune off any root suckers that form at the base of the plant to improve its appearance and direct more energy into fruit production.

The best time to prune serviceberry is during its dormant period in winter or very early spring. This will minimize stress to your plant by preventing excessive sap loss. Pruning during the dormant season also allows you to see the tree’s structure more clearly so you can make your cuts with greater precision.

Diseases and pests:

May be subject to fire blight, fungal leaf spot, and rust, although some cultivars are bred to resist these diseases. Insect pests to watch out for include sawfly, leaf miner, borers, and scale.

Are serviceberries good to eat?

Absolutely! If you love blueberries, you’ll enjoy the taste of serviceberries, which have a similar sweet flavor with a hint of almond. You can eat the fruit raw or use it in any recipe that calls for blueberries, including jams, jellies, cobblers, pies, and muffins. Serviceberries are also a nutritional powerhouse rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals.

When is the best time to harvest serviceberries?

Generally, serviceberries are ready for harvest 2 to 3 months after the blooms appear. They are at their best when they ripen from red to a deep bluish-purple color and are slightly soft to the touch. But if you want to harvest the berries a bit early to prevent them from becoming too soft, they will continue to ripen after being picked. To prevent birds from beating you to the harvest, cover your tree with netting once the berries begin to appear.

Do you need two serviceberry trees to produce fruit?

Most Amelanchier species are self-pollinating, which means you do not need two trees to produce fruit. However, having more than one variety of serviceberry can improve fruit production through cross-pollination.

Do deer eat serviceberries?

Deer tend to munch on both the leaves and fruit of serviceberries, especially if other food sources are scarce. If you’re trying to protect your plants from deer, consider using deer repellents or installing physical barriers like fencing to keep deer away from your plants (see more deer-proofing tips). Other mammals that like snacking on serviceberries include squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, foxes, and raccoons.

Should you plant a serviceberry next to the house?

Planting a serviceberry tree near your house can be a wonderful idea, allowing you to enjoy the fragrant flowers, colorful berries (as well as the birds that feed on them), and vibrant autumn foliage at close range. Just make sure there’s enough space for your serviceberry to grow to its mature size without interfering with your home's structure or utility lines. Also avoid planting your serviceberry too close to your home’s foundation, so the roots have room to spread.