Amelanchier alnifolia 'Northline'

In addition to the name Saskatoon, these berries are also known as prairie berries, serviceberries, shadbush and juneberries. There are many varieties available throughout its native lands of North America. Ravensfield has chosen the Northline variety of the Saskatoon berry for planting in its orchard. This variety will produce excellent berries for winemaking.

The Northline is a large self-pollinating shrub that grows to approximately 10 feet tall and 7 feet wide. The shrubs are covered in small white flowers in spring before leaves comes out. Small, sweet blue coloured round berries are ready for picking in early June beginning three years after planting.

Unlike other fruit types, the Saskatoon berry is not particular as to soil type or pH; however, a program of tissue testing and soil amendments has been initiated to optimize berry quality. It prefers moist ground so we need to ensure the plants stay properly irrigated. The orchard is open to full sun so these sun-loving plants should thrive there. The orchard is fully fenced in to keep deer from enjoying the fruit, but we still need to watch for other pests, including rabbits, mice and grasshoppers. Non-chemical methods will continue to be used for pest deterrence.

Collin and the team planted his first Saskatoon shrubs in 2018 in the Bee & Thistle Orchard nursery (first picture on the left). Then in 2019, they were transplanted to Ravensfield, their permanent home (middle picture). The last picture was taken in May, 2020, showing they continue to do well. We expect them to grow significantly this year. To augment this selection, Collin planted more in early June.