Description
Isaac is a small shrub with a decorative habit, very productive, producing very large, sweet and tasty fruits. The fruit must be harvested quickly before it starts to fall. Native to Eastern Canada. This Isaac Saskatoon Berry variety has been selected for its compact habit. It grows to a maximum height of 6 ft (1.8m) tall, making hand picking the berries easier. Produces a consistent yield of delicious berries, and is a great addition to orchards or gardens. Many describe the taste of Saskatoon berries as a sweet, nutty almond flavour. The berries, ranging in colour from violet-blue to purple, are high in pectin, and ideal for jam and jelly making. Enjoy showy clusters of white flowers in the spring, and bright red-orange leaves in fall.
Care Instructions
Light: Plant in full sun for the best fruit production. Saskatoon berries thrive with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but fruiting may be less abundant.
Watering: Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods. However, ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. Once established, Saskatoon berries are drought-tolerant.
Soil: Saskatoon berries prefer well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Sandy or loamy soil is ideal. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. You can also apply compost or well-rotted manure in the fall to enrich the soil.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. Regular pruning encourages better air circulation and promotes new growth. Aim to remove about 20% of the older wood each year to improve fruiting
Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch away from the stem to avoid rot.
Pollination: Saskatoon berry plants are self-pollinating but will benefit from having multiple plants nearby to improve fruit set and yield.
Support: Saskatoon berry plants are generally upright and don’t require support, but a stake or trellis can help if the plant is growing in a windy location.
Harvesting: Harvest the berries when they are fully ripe, typically in late spring to early summer (June to July). The berries should be dark purple to black, firm, and easily detach from the plant.
By following these care instructions, your Saskatoon berry plant will thrive and provide you with a bountiful, delicious harvest of berries year after year