GROWING BARKBERRY
The greatest advantage of the baskberry is its high frost resistance and early ripening of its fruit. The first fruits ripen in late June. The plant produces its first harvest in the third year after planting and continues to bear fruit annually for 40-50 years. It reaches full productivity at 6-8 years of age. It is easy to care for—it grows well and thrives in almost any soil and is highly resistant to diseases and pests.
 |
| ALDER-LEAFED BARKBERRY. Amelanchier alnifolia (Rosaceae Family). |
GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION
Cultivated varieties of baskberry are descended from the wild form, Amelanchier alnifolia. This genus comprises approximately 25 species, characterized by great diversity and reaching heights from 0.5 m to 15 m. Wild amelanchier grows in the northeastern United States and southwestern Canada. Due to similar climatic conditions, the plant has adapted particularly well to Poland. It can withstand winter temperatures down to -40°C, and the flowers tolerate spring frosts down to -5-7°C.
BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION
A multi-stemmed shrub or small tree (depending on the variety), typically reaching up to 2 m in height. Depending on the variety, the bushes are more or less spreading.
The leaves are oval in shape, with serrated edges. The flowers are borne in clusters, white, and self-pollinating (so plantations of plants of the same variety can be established, and cross-pollination is also possible). They bloom in the second half of April, and the bloom period lasts 7-10 days. The berries are oval, sometimes slightly elongated, with a persistent calyx at the apex. They range in color from dark blue to black, sometimes purple, and are covered with a thick waxy coating. The berries vary in size depending on the variety, ranging from 5-15 mm, and weigh between 0.5-1.3 g. They are juicy and sweet, with a pleasant flavor and carmine-colored juice.
The berries ripen approximately 45-60 days after flowering, typically from late June to the first half of July (i.e., before the harvest of blackcurrants and blueberries). The average yield per bush is 8-12 kg. The flesh is juicy. To obtain more juice, it is recommended to leave the berries for about 7 days after harvesting, until they are overripe. Serviceberry berries contain a complex complex of biologically active substances: vitamins A, B, and C, sugar (8-12%, primarily glucose and fructose), malic and citric acids (0.5%), tannins, up to 1% pectin, 0.9% tannin, carotene, coumarin, copper, and cobalt. The berries are characterized by a high content of anthocyanins (up to 1000 mg%), which are known as active substances that prevent various diseases, especially cancer. They contain small amounts of protein (9%) and fat (5%).
According to research, serviceberry berries are richer in minerals and nutrients, and are also healthier than highbush blueberries. 100 g of frozen serviceberry berries contain approximately 7 times more calcium and iron and 4 times more potassium and protein than highbush blueberries. Serviceberry fruits are recommended for consumption after radiation therapy and antibiotic therapy. The fruits have a positive effect on the central nervous system, helping with insomnia and reducing symptoms of hyperactivity.
A decoction of the flowers constricts blood vessels, helping prevent varicose veins and heart disease.
SOIL AND CLIMATIC REQUIREMENTS
• Soil
Serviceberry has no specific soil or planting site requirements. The plant can grow in all soil types, with the exception of dry sand and areas with constant groundwater (swampy areas). It tolerates both slightly acidic and slightly alkaline soils (pH 6.2-7.5).
• Light
Serviceberry loves light; it does not bear fruit well in shaded areas. To ensure uniform illumination of the bushes, it is recommended to arrange the plant beds in a north-south direction on commercial plantations. • Temperature
The plant originates from central-western Canada, where summer temperatures reach 30°C (86°F) and winter temperatures drop to as low as -45°C (-45°F). These conditions are similar to those in Poland, so serviceberry can be grown throughout the country.
• Water
Serviceberry requires no additional watering. Well-established plants can withstand even prolonged periods of drought and are more durable than other fruit tree species. The bushes root at a depth of 140 cm (55 in), and the roots spread widely, helping the plants find water during times of scarcity. Maintaining soil moisture is especially important during the first 2-3 years after planting, when the root system is not yet fully developed.
CARE
• Soil Preparation
Serviceberry can be grown in the same location for many years, so it is crucial to properly provide the site with everything it needs for long-term use. One of the first steps is weed control, especially perennial weeds. It is also advisable to help the plants at the start and provide them with nutrients by using manure at a dose of approximately 30 t/ha, or green fertilizers (lupine, phacelia, mustard).
Read more popular blog post:
1) Dichondra - silver waterfall!
No comments:
Post a Comment