How to Grow a Serviceberry Tree

The serviceberry is a deciduous tree that provides year round color and interest in the home landscape. Large white flower clusters appear on the branches in April, before the smooth, shiny green leaves unfurl. June brings purplish-black berries and fall is highlighted by a brilliant reddish-orange leaf color that lasts for many weeks. Follow these easy steps to plant your serviceberry and enjoy it all year long.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Serviceberry tree
• Shovel
• Water
• Mulch

1. Choose a planting site that receives full sun. The serviceberry, however, is one of the few flowering trees that adapts to a partly shaded location. A protected location is ideal as the service berry does not thrive in windy or exposed areas.

2. Prepare the serviceberry tree for planting. Trees may be purchased balled-and burlapped or in containers. Lay container plants on the ground and roll the pot back and forth to loosen the tree. Gently ease the serviceberry out of the pot. Use a knife or garden shears to remove any twine or wire restricting the tree. Cut away half of the burlap from the rootball.

3. Dig a planting hole 4 times the width of the rootball and equally as deep.

4. Place the serviceberry in the planting hole. Backfill a small portion of the original soil to keep the tree erect. Fill the planting hole with water and allow time to be absorbed. Use a shovel to fill the hole with the remaining soil and water again.

5. Create a water well around the base of the tree. Mulch the entire planting area

Tips & Warnings

• The serviceberry grows well in hardiness zones 4 through 7.

• The sweet, reddish-purple fruit of the serviceberry, which appears in June and ripens in summer, is a treat for wildlife and humans. The round berries make wonderful jams and pies, if you can get to the tree before the deer and birds.

• The serviceberry is known by a number of different names. Some common names are: Downey Juneberries, Shadbush or Shadblow. Ask your nursery for an Amelanchier, and he will provide a serviceberry appropriate for your growing area.

• Fertilize the serviceberry tree in early November. This is particularly important during the first decade of growth after planting.

• The serviceberry is a moderately growing tree. Anticipate a height of 15 to 40 feet and a spread of 20 feet. It is not unusual for the tree to have multiple trunks.

• Japanese beetles can be a problem for the serviceberry. Spray the tree with an insecticide or knock the beetles off the leaves into a pot of boiling water.

• The serviceberry is partial to moist, well-drained soil. Maintain a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch and water the tree frequently during dry spells.