Gaspé Serviceberry

Gaspé Serviceberry should be watered thoroughly once per week during the active growth period, from late spring until fall. Be sure to provide water until the soil is moistened to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. It is important to water deeply and infrequently to promote roots growth and avoid shallow surface roots which can result from too much watering. Soil should be allowed to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. In dry climates, supplemental watering may be necessary during the summer. During the winter months, avoid overwatering as this may rot the plant roots.

Gaspé Serviceberry (Amelanchier gaspensis) requires full to partial sun for optimal growth, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best results. The plant is adapted to cooler temperatures and will do best in partial shade when temperatures are high. It should be placed in a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade for best results. This species can tolerate some shade but will flower and produce fruit less abundantly in the shade. When growing Gaspé Serviceberry, it is best to place it in well-draining soil that is moist but not soggy and in a spot that receives bright light all day.

Gaspé Serviceberry should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before the start of new growth. To encourage vigorous growth, thin out dead or crossing branches to help allow more light and air into the shrub. Additionally, selectively prune some of the older, thicker branches to help ensure that the interior of the shrub continues to get adequate light. The tree should also be pruned to keep the desired shape. Lightly shaping it by removing branches with pruning shears that are more than 1-third the circumference of the branch can be beneficial. Trimming serviceberry shrubs can also reduce the amount of fruit, if it is not desired. Lastly, any dead or broken branches should be pruned away.