Description
Northline Saskatoon is a native shrub that's famous for its great-tasting fruit. The berries are terrific for fresh eating and cooking. The Saskatoon bush itself can be quite large and produces an abundance of fruit. Saskatoons are hardy and can tolerate partial shade and a variety of growing conditions. Northline Saskatoon will grow to be about 10 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 7 feet.
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