Amelanchier alnifolia var. ‘Smokey’ – Smokey Saskatoon Berry seeds

Additional Info

Edible Canadian Shrubberies:

What is a Saskatoon berry? North American super fruit?:

Cold stratifying seeds using the paper towel method:

Studies:

Saskatoon Berry Amelanchier alnifolia Regulates Glucose Metabolism and Improves Cardiovascular and Liver Signs of Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats

Description

When looking through the products I offer, one thing you might notice is that I have a fondness for Canadian shrubs and also foods that were traditional eaten by Indigenous Americans – though that Venn diagram between those two categories is basically just a circle.

Saskatoon berry/Serviceberry/Juneberry/Shadbush – whatever you want to call it – is a unique treat.  Traditionally used fresh, dried, and as an ingredient in pemmican – alongside dried meat and tallow – the Saskatoon berry is one that has survived our transition into industrialised agriculture and still holds a name for itself – at least among Canadians who forage.  USAmericans are less likely to recognise this as food – a real shame given it’s a prolific producer of berries that run the gamut of what you want a berry to do.  It’s one of the very few things I carry that should appeal fresh, dried, or preserved.  A real ‘jack of all trades’ if you will.

The technical bits –

‘Smokey’ is a selected for its large, sweet berries and reliable yields. The fruit is often compared to blueberries but with a richer, almond-like undertone thanks to the tiny seeds.

This deciduous shrub grows 2-4 metres tall, with upright growth and white spring flowers that support early pollinators. Fruit ripens in early to mid-summer. It’s well suited to cool-temperate climates and does especially well in areas with cold winters and mild summers.

Growth & Conditions:

‘Smokey’ tolerates a range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained loams. It does best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Hardy to -40°C, and tolerant of wind, drought, and even light salinity once established. A good option for exposed or inland areas.

Fruiting from Seed:

This seed comes from open-pollinated ‘Smokey’ plants and will not come true to type – seedlings will vary in fruit size, sweetness, and form. While self-fertile, to ensure the best fruit set you should grow at least 3-5 seedlings to allow for sufficient cross-pollination and diversity.

Cold Stratification & Germination:

Seeds require 3–4 months of cold, moist stratification at 1-5°C. After that, sow into cool soil (15-20°C). Germination may take several weeks.

Outdoor Stratification Tip:

Sow in autumn in trays or pots, and leave them in a shaded, rodent-proof area outdoors. Winter cold will naturally stratify the seeds, and germination should begin in spring.