While the season is completed, gardeners in the Pikes Peak region experience that “go out with a bang”-case-plants euphoria.
They are looking for a robust, drought -tolerant plant, a local outstanding endurance that offers beauty, food and resilience. Do not search any further, the answer is the serviceberry.
Which berry?
Put on your reading glasses, you are with a pleasure. This facility is known among many names, including Saskatoon and Juneberry. It is versatile like a shrub or a small tree and ensures four seasons while thriving in Colorado Springs' demanding climate.
Serviceberries in Colorados mountains and high levels are an intelligent, sustainable choice for local landscapes. They offer more than just use of low water; They attract pollinators, feed wild animals and offer edible fruits for people. What could a gardener ask for?
Why plant a service berry?
Four-anniversary profession: In spring, delicate cluster white flowers appear in front of the leaves and attract early pollinators. By June or July, these flowers are transformed into sweet, dark purple Derries. When autumn arrives, the foliage turns into brilliant colors orange, red and gold and offers a breathtaking display. In winter, the smooth, gray bark of the tree of the resting landscape gives visual interest.
Servicebork are a crucial source of food for local birds and other wild animals, especially with their abundant fruits. The flowers are also a reliable early food source for bees and other pollinators.
The sweeteners also appeal to us and can be used fresh or in cakes, jams and jellies.
Drought and pollution-tolerant: As soon as local varieties such as Saskatoon (Amelanchier Alnifolia) are located, service berries are remarkable drought, which makes it ideal for xeriscaping. They are also good in urban environments and tolerate a number of soil conditions and pollution.
Where to plant
For the best results, choose a location with at least six hours of sunshine a day. While service boronies can handle sub -shadows, they produce more flowers and fruits in full sun.
The well -decreasing soil is critical because aqueous roots can lead to root rot. To improve the area, especially if you have heavy tone floor, mix organic substance such as compost. Avoid planting near sidewalks or patos if you don't want fruit stains.
Also avoid planting servers in which farm animals graze because they are poisonous for cattle. They are not deer -resistant.
When to plant
Spring or early autumn (now) is the optimal time for planting, so that the roots can be defined before temperature extremes.
For those who are looking for a colorado-hardy, high-performance system, The Serviceberry is a real local champion that provides beauty, food and resilience with minimal effort.
Send garden questions to csumg2@elpasoco.com or by phone at 719-520-7684. The personal help desk is on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Spruce Street 5 p.m. to 4 a.m. in Colorado Master Gardeners-El Paso County.