Amelanchier utahensis seeds, Coville's Serviceberry

Sowing **Serviceberry** (Amelanchier spp.), an ornamental and fruit-bearing shrub or small tree, is a rewarding way to propagate it. However, the seeds require specific preparation to break dormancy. Here is a step-by-step guide to successful sowing:

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### Materials needed:
- **Amelanchier** seeds.
- Light, well-drained substrate (mixture of seedling soil, sand and compost).
- Small pots or seedling trays.
- Spray bottle or watering can with low flow.
- Stratification tray or refrigerator.

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### Steps for sowing:

#### 1. **Seed harvest and preparation**:
- Harvest the seeds in the fall from ripe fruits (red or purple berries).
- Remove the pulp by rubbing them in water to clean the seeds.
- Let them air dry for a few hours.

#### 2. **Cold stratification**:
- Saskatoon berry seeds have a natural dormancy that requires cold stratification to germinate.
- Mix the seeds with moist sand or vermiculite in a plastic bag or airtight container.
- Store them in the refrigerator at a temperature of **2 to 5°C** for **3 to 4 months**.
- Check regularly that the substrate remains slightly damp.

#### 3. **Sowing period**:
- Sow seeds in spring after cold stratification.
- Alternatively, sow in autumn to take advantage of natural stratification outdoors.

#### 4. **Substrate preparation**:
- Mix seed starting soil with an equal part of sand or perlite to ensure good drainage.
- Fill the pots or seed trays with this mixture.

#### 5. **Sowing the seeds**:
- Sow the seeds at a depth of **5 mm to 1 cm**.
- Cover them lightly with a thin layer of sieved substrate.
- Tamp gently to ensure good contact between the seeds and the substrate.

#### 6. **Watering**:
- Gently moisten the substrate with a spray bottle or a watering can at low flow.
- Maintain constant humidity, without soaking the soil.

#### 7. **Germination conditions**:
- Place the pots in a bright place but without direct sunlight.
- The ideal temperature for germination is **15 to 20 °C**.
- Germination can take **1 to 3 months**, sometimes longer depending on conditions.

#### 8. **Replanting**:
- When the seedlings reach about **10 cm** and develop several leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
- Use a similar substrate and continue to grow them in a bright but protected place.

#### 9. **Final planting**:
- Transplant the young plants into the ground after **1 to 2 years**, when they are well established.
- Choose a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil.

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### Tips for growing:

- **Exposure**: The Saskatoon berry prefers a sunny or partially shaded exposure.
- **Soil**: It grows well in rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils, but tolerates a wide range of soils.
- **Watering**: Water regularly during growth, especially during dry periods.
- **Hardiness**: Very hardy, the Saskatoon berry can withstand temperatures down to **-30°C**.
- **Interview** :
- Prune lightly to remove dead or poorly oriented branches.
- Fertilize in spring to promote vigorous growth and good fruiting.

With these steps, you will be able to grow **Amelanchier**, an attractive and versatile shrub that will beautify your garden while providing delicious fruits. 🌱✨