Description
Latin Name: Sorbus aucuparia
DESCRIPTION
Family: Rosaceae
Native Range: Eurasia
Seed Source: Selected trees growing in the town of Indian Head, Saskatchewan.
Height and Spread: 8m x 6m (25 years)
Overview: The seed strain was developed for agroforestry planting in the Canadian prairies. It is an excellent long-lived tree species that is fast-growing and hardy. 'This seed strain was named in honour of Archibald Mitchell Assistant Superintendent at the Dominion Forest Nursery Station at Indian Head from 1908 to 1911.
Fruits: A fleshy berry-like pome.
Average number of seeds/packet: 800
SEED TREATMENT / SOWING
Stratification: Stratify in moist sand at 5°C for 180 days
Ideal sowing time: Spring (stratified seed) or fall (non-stratified)
Sowing instructions: Sow 1.0 cm deep, 50 seeds/meter; Greenhouse - sow 3 seeds per cell.
Growing conditions: Best growth on medium-textured soils with soil pH 7.0 to 8.0. Fertilization is not required.
AGROFORESTRY VALUE
'Mitchell' mountain ash is used in wildlife plantings, shelterbelts, or eco-buffers where a fast-growing, tough tree is needed. The seed strain does well on most soils, frost and drought resistant. It provides a good crop of berries for winter birds.
