AMELANCHIER  (Serviceberry)

Information from a number of on line sources.  

Amelanchier has a variety of common names. It is primarily known as serviceberry.   According to legend, the tree was given that name in 19th century New England because it bloomed in April, when the spring thaw allowed roads to become passable and rural residents could once again attend religious services. For people who preferred to skip services and go fishing instead, the flowers appeared coincidentally when the shad migrated upstream from the ocean to spawn. So the name “shadbush” stuck.

The plant was also dubbed “Juneberry” because June is when the fruit ripens. And the juneberries can be used to make a nice pie, similar to a blueberry pie. 

Regardless of what you call it, it’s a popular tree that is commonly planted in Michigan landscapes. 

SERVICEBERRY PESTS AND DISEASES

Serviceberries are closely related to apples and pears, all of which are members of the rose family (Rosaceae). They are therefore susceptible to many diseases affecting other species within this family, including fire blight and fungal diseases. Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, are generally not a serious problem for serviceberries and may be prevented by selecting resistant cultivars. Planting trees in full sun as opposed to shade may also make the trees less susceptible to disease.

Although our native serviceberry trees are primarily understory trees growing in shade, we have found that the ornamental varieties do not tolerate the shade as well.  Depending on the severity, fungal diseases may generally be ignored, but prompt and thorough fall cleanup of diseased leaves will prevent the overwintering of fungal spores.

A number of insects, such as aphids, borers, Japanese beetles, scale and spider mites, may be pests of serviceberry.   Serviceberry is seldom bothered by deer.

Serviceberry not planted in ideal conditions can be maintained by judicious and timely fertilization, systemic insecticides, spring fungicide sprays and avoiding over watering.

HAPPY SERVICEBERRY OR SHADBUSH TREES-  OUR APPROACH:

Spring fungicide sprays in early spring.  

Fertilizing every other year,in the fall with added systemic imidacloprid insecticide.  

Avoid overwatering.