did you know?

The serviceberry's other common name, shadbush, comes from the fact that the tree usually flowers just as the shadfish make their annual spawning run.

general maintenance:

Seldom requires pruning, but do remove diseased or damaged branches.

pests/diseases:

Rust, fireblight, and witches' broom may occur.

controls:

Remove affected branches or entire plants to control rust, fireblight, or witches broom. Consider planting the new cultivars that have been selected for disease resistance.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, making sure there is enough room for tree or shrub to reach its mature size. In early spring, dig a hole twice as wide as container or root ball. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot, or if balled, level with top of root ball. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before backfilling. Natural-fiber burlap may be peeled back and left in ground once plant is set in hole. Fill hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of hole to act as a catchbasin. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture the first season. Be sure soil is moist before the ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once shrub is established, usually by the third year, water only during drought.

garden hint:

If you plan to harvest berries, drape shrubs in a protective netting because birds are strongly attracted to the serviceberry fruits.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attractive Fruit
• Attracts Birds
• Deciduous
• Fall Foliage
• Native
• Shade Tolerant

garden uses:

• Edging
• Naturalizing
• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (sweet, fleshy fruits)

combine with:

perennials and annuals in a mixed border, or for a more elegant look, plant serviceberry in a naturalistic, woodland setting.