Serviceberry: A little-known native tree that birds (and gardeners) love
By MIKE RALEY WPTF Weekend Gardener
RALEIGH, N.C. (WPTF) – Many years ago, my family and I were visiting relatives in Ohio in early April. On the way back home it snowed, although it did not stick to the roads. It stopped snowing as we were coming down Fancy Gap mountain on the Virginia-North Carolina border, just north of Mount Airy. I have vivid memories of a tree with white blooms that caught my eye. It was a Serviceberry (Amelanchier) which is in the rose family. It is also called Shadbush, Shadblow, Juneberry, and Sugarplum. Native to all three regions of North Carolina and I had never seen one, so I read up on it and asked Anne Clapp about this interesting tree.
The Serviceberry in North Carolina prefers full sun to partial shade to deal with our growing conditions. We have acid soil in North Carolina so this tree is happy here. The Serviceberry is fairly drought tolerant. You are wise, however, to water well during the first year until the root system matures.
The standard Serviceberry will grow to a height of 15 to 25 feet tall.
When planting your serviceberry in the spring or fall, be sure to dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough for the top of the root ball to just peek over the top of the ground surface. You may choose to place something like Permatill or other type of aggregate material at the bottom of the hole, add some water and fill in dirt, compost, or organic matter of some kind. Add two to three inches of hardwood mulch. Keep in mind the evaporation rates are much higher in the spring.
Fertilize your serviceberry lightly with a slow-release fertilizer. The extension service often recommends something in the realm of a 12-6-6. Root protection can be achieved with the use of hardwood mulch or pine straw. This will also provide nutrients.
All birders will like the Serviceberry since it produces berries that birds love and can be used by humans in the form of jelly. I must say I have never eaten a serviceberry or jelly made from the berries. The white flowers will service all kinds of pollinators well.
The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service has a recipe to share:
- 3.5 cups of serviceberry juice.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice.
- 6 tbsp pectin (Ball RealFruit Classic Pectin is a suggested brand).
- 5 cups granulated sugar
Prepare the serviceberry juice: You can extract juice by crushing the berries, adding a cup of water, bringing it to a boil, simmering for 10 minutes, and straining through a jelly bag or several layers of cheesecloth.
Combine and dissolve: Pour the serviceberry juice and lemon juice into a large stainless steel pan. Add the pectin and stir until dissolved.
Boil and add sugar: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the sugar and return to a rolling boil, stirring constantly for 1 minute until the sugar dissolves.
Remove from heat and skim: Remove the pan from the heat and skim off any foam from the top.
Fill jars and process: Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Heat-process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 15 minutes.
There are a few varieties and cultivars that will work well in North Carolina. “Allegheny Serviceberry” is a native species found in western North Carolina. The Downy Serviceberry is also native and the folks at NC State say that you normally find the “Amelanchier aborea” in woodland areas of the states. “Robin Hill” has pink buds that eventually fade. “Autumn Brilliance” is known for its really good fall color. “Princess Diana” is also a popular variety and is much like “Autumn Brilliance.” “Cumulus” is an upright variety. “Dwarf Serviceberry” is smaller than the standard varieties and will save you some space.
The scientists at NC State University say Serviceberry insect pests include leafminers, spider mites, aphids, peach borer and scale. Diseases can include powdery mildew, cedar apple rust, fire blight and a few others. I’m not sure if I have enticed you to search for serviceberry. But it is after all a native tree with an interesting history which saw European settlers waiting for the blooms to appear as a sign of thawing ground and a time for burial services. I rarely see them in local nurseries, so you will have to ask if they can order one.
Furry Friday: Meet Shakka!
Meet Shakka: The Shy Guy Who Turns Into a Playtime Superstar! Shakka’s story hasn’t been the easiest-after a rough start in life and a foster home that didn’t work out (turns out cats aren’t his thing), this 2.5-year-old boy has been patiently waiting for his chance to shine. He’s a little shy and scared in the shelter, but he has a heart full of love that’s ready to open to the right person.
Shakka thrives on companionship, and he’ll run to doggie playgroup with a big, happy smile on his face. Around other dogs, he’s a completely different dog-confident, vibrant, and full of joy. Shakka has blossomed beautifully, lighting up the yard with his playful spirit and contagious grin. Even in a lively mixed group of six dogs, he’s engaged and having a blast, making friends with both males and females alike.
If you’re looking for a gentle soul who’s just waiting for the right moment to shine, Shakka could be your perfect play partner and loyal companion. Come meet this joyful guy and see how quickly he can steal your heart!
If you’re interested in learning more about him, please reach out to our volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Shakka 257579” or come visit him any day (except holidays) from Noon until 6pm.
He is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, and is microchipped. If you have dogs, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
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Furry Friday: Meet Raya!
Meet Raya! This sweet, sweet girl is looking for a calm home that can provide a safe space to decompress while she adjusts to a new family. Raya came to us very, very scared and has made HUGE strides. She is not reactive or aggressive- she just needs some time and space to feel comfortable and safe.
Raya LOVES her dog friends and a home with another dog is a must. Raya also needs a home with a fenced in backyard since the leash can sometimes be a little scary. She is cat friendly/safe. Her ideal home would not have super young children that may find petting/touching a dog too exciting to resist.
Raya is house and crate trained and gets her energy out in our fenced in backyard and playing with her dog siblings. After playing she loves to cuddle up on the couch and nap with her people. For more questions or to meet Raya please email [email protected]
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Furry Friday: Meet Gotti!
Gotti is already neutered and READY TO GO HOME TODAY!!!! This lovable mature pup had a rough life, but his story is one of resilience and hope. Thanks to his foster family, he has learned what it is like to feel love and safety. He is full of love and potential. With the right family, he’ll thrive as he learns to enjoy life to the fullest. His foster mom gave him a lot of guidance – and she said he is a good listener- but she still had to keep a close eye on him because he thinks everything is a chew toy. Patience, guidance and supervision will help set him up for success.
Gotti appears to be house trained and is very quiet in his kennel. He knows “sit” and takes his treats gently. He also is a wonderful walking companion. Gotti loves to run around outside but he is learning that cuddling on the couch is also fun. Gotti has been such a good boy during playgroups. He loves high action play, and he was incredibly tolerant of a vocal female player. He has played one on one with several different females and did well with each one.
If you’re interested in learning more about him, please reach out to our Volunteer Matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Gotti 253019”
Gotti has heartworms but it’s treatable and not contagious. To help with the medical cost, a $600 sponsorship for treatment is provided by Friends of Wake County Animal Center. Email [email protected] for more information.
Gotti can go home today! He is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick and heartworm prevention, already neutered, and is microchipped. He arrived at the shelter with 2 female dogs, but we are not sure how he is with male dogs. Proper introductions in a new home are important. If you have children, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
Photos courtesy of volunteers and Five Freedoms Photography
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Longtime WRAL anchor Charlie Gaddy dies at 93
RALEIGH, N.C. (WPTF) — Charlie Gaddy, one of North Carolina’s most recognizable broadcasters and a longtime anchor on WRAL-TV, has died at age 93.
Before beginning his television career, Gaddy worked for a time at WPTF, the flagship station of the North Carolina News Network. In a 2024 interview marking WPTF’s 100th anniversary, he recalled the early days of local radio programming, including a show called Ask Your Neighbor.
“It was just something that somebody came up with as an idea, and they tried it to see how it would work,” Gaddy said. “And it worked beautifully. It was a very popular program and lasted a long time. But that’s how it started.”
Gaddy was born in Biscoe, North Carolina, attended Guilford College, and served in the U.S. Army. He became a household name across central North Carolina during his years anchoring WRAL’s evening newscasts, known for his calm demeanor and trusted presence.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
From Ditch Lilies to Showstoppers: Growing Daylilies in North Carolina
By MIKE RALEY WPTF Weekend Gardener
Our loyal Weekend Gardener listener and friend Steve is the pot master of the universe when it comes to daylilies (Hemerocallis). You may have heard them referred to as “ditch lilies. These perennials originated in China. I must say though, they just love the climate here in North Carolina.
There are over 60-thousand varieties with lots of colors from pale yellow to pink to lavender to maroon. They are extremely popular in North Carolina and there are active daylily clubs all over the state including Raleigh. Our friend Steve’s club meets at the Ralston Arboretum. Once upon a time Rufus entered a daylily from his landscape in the club’s marvelous show and won a blue ribbon. You would have thought he had been handed the Nobel prize.
The daylily is easy to grow and has many uses in the landscape. As you might expect, daylilies need a full sun exposure for the best blooming. That translates into at least 6 hours. They prefer well-drained soil which means level ground is good, however daylilies work well on slopes. They can adapt to most soils and are drought tolerant. Due to their ginormous root system, they can help stabilize the soil to help prevent erosion. They also look good in mixed borders. If you like reliable, this is your plant.
As the name indicates, each individual daylily bloom only lasts a day. Of course there are numerous buds on any healthy plans so you will get weeks of blooming pleasure. There are also reblooming varieties available too.
Your local nursery and plantsmen at the state farmers market will have plenty of information about dayliles and some popular varieties.
When you find the perfect spot in your yard, break up the soil and add some organic matter. If you have your own backyard compost, that will work well for your purpose. The daylily folks recommend planting a foot apart as the foliage and root system both need room. Set each plant’s crown about an inch below the surface. Tamp the soil down to secure your plant and to prevent air pockets. Water the daylilies after planting. Add a couple of inches of hardwood mulch or pinestraw. Continue watering deeply as needed until well established. Daylilies like slightly moist soil. Pay close attention if you plant in the early summer when you are likely to be inspired by the beauty of the flowers. They are usually near their peak around here in mid to late June.
I don’t fertilize anything in my landscape except for the small patch of fescue I have and the one grandiflora rose I maintain because it has extraordinary blooms and is totally reliable. For daylilies, some folks use a balanced fertilizer with low nitrogen and higher potassium and potash, something like Plantone from Espoma in the spring. Generally don’t go overboard with fertilizer especially with a blooming plant.
Daylilies are of course a bulb, so you may want to divide them once in a while to revitalize, move to other parts of your landscape or share with a neighbor. The folks at the Hemerocallis society recommend dividing your plants right after they bloom. Just dig up the whole plant, separate the clumps and get as much soil off the roots as possible. Pull the clumps apart, separate by the roots.
It’s always a good idea to do a little maintenance to your day lilies during and after the blooming season. Remove spent blooms after flowering. In winter, get rid of dead foliage and cut the stakes to the ground.
There are lots of daylily experts around the state. You can check the North Carolina Hemerocallis Society and many local clubs like the Raleigh Daylily Club. Everyone should find a sunny spot in their landscape for these beauties. Don’t be the only person in your neighborhood to be without daylilies, you hear!
Furry Friday: Meet Myers!
Myers is an 87-pound delight who bursts with joy the moment he meets another dog. During playgroup, he showed off his bouncy, ebullient side-jumping high, crouching low into deep play bows, and having the absolute time of his life! Watching him play will bring a smile to your face, no doubt about it. He’s even MET A CAT BEFORE and, while curious, respected its space. But don’t let his playful energy fool you: Myers can be a bit over-excited in his kennel because he really needs to get outside and stretch those legs. Once on a walk, he transforms into a calm, gentle giant who’s easy to handle and unfazed by barking dogs nearby. He’s even earned a spot on the “potty trained” list!
Myers is a shy guy who doesn’t settle in quickly, so he’d do best in a quiet home without young children. New people, loud noises, and fast movements can make him nervous, so he’ll need a patient adopter willing to let him take things at his own pace. Treats are the way to Myers’s heart-he’s smart, trainable, and eager to please. Training will boost his confidence and help bring out his goofy, affectionate personality. He loves morning cuddles, walks, mealtime, and just about anything that means spending quality time with you.
Myers is crate trained but prefers sleeping right beside you-whether that’s on your bed or the floor. He’d likely do well with another calm, friendly big dog to help show him the ropes (slow intros recommended). Having spent time in foster care, Myers has proven he thrives best in a home environment-who wouldn’t? This sweet, sensitive guy is ready to be your loyal companion and best friend, bringing a whole lot of quiet joy (and plenty of play bows) to your life.
If you’re interested in learning more about him, please reach out to our Volunteer Matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Myers 254429.”
Myers is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and will be neutered prior to going home. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
Pictures supplied by WCAC volunteers & Five Freedoms Photography
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Furry Friday: Meet Maple!
Meet Maple, the sweet and friendly explorer! She’s got a little bit of everything-quick bursts of energy and fancy footwork, followed by some serious yard sniffing (hey, someone’s gotta investigate the backyard, right?). While she didn’t quite dive into full play mode this time, we’re excited to see how she does in future sessions. Maple’s got a charming, laid-back vibe that’s sure to win your heart!
Our volunteers like to take Maple out on adventures! Here is what they had to say: “She got into the car easily and settled down into comfort very quickly! We went to historic oak view where she got to explore many new things. She enjoyed sniffing around, and met some chickens and geese (https://youtube.com/shorts/v7Qsg197mzk?feature=share). She was very interested in these small animals so extra caution should be taken if introducing Maple to small animals. It turns out that she is not a fan of the pup cup, so you don’t have to worry about this girl trying to steal your coffee!”
If you’re interested in learning more about her, please reach out to our volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Maple 257533”.
She is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and will be spayed prior to going home. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
Pictures supplied by WCAC volunteers & Five Freedoms Photography
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Furry Friday: Meet Franklin!
Franklyn is a one year old, medium energy boy! He gets excited when you come to his kennel, but volunteers say he is easy to collar and walk on the leash. He does pull at times, especially when he’s caught a scent and is on sniff patrol!
During doggie playgroups, Franklyn paired up nicely with a high energy female playmate and seemed to enjoy the tango together!
This good boy gets to go on adventures with our volunteers! On his latest outing to the park, it was noted that he rides very well in the car and on the hiking trails, he loves to sniff and explore all things. He would do best with humans who can match his need for outdoor adventures. He is quite the messy pup-cup eater though so be sure to get lots of napkins! Franklyn loves to smile and have a good time, come and meet your new best friend!
Although he is heartworm positive, it is treatable and not contagious. Friends of Wake County Animal Center has provided a $600 sponsorship to help cover the cost of treatment.
If you’re interested in learning more about Franklyn, please reach out to our Volunteer Matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Franklyn 255128.”
Franklyn is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and will be neutered prior to going home. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
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Meet Illicium: A Shade-Loving Shrub with Personality
By MIKE RALEY
I can remember a time when there were few shade-loving shrubs from which to choose for the North Carolina landscape. In the early years of the “Weekend Gardener,” Erv Evans or those who filled in for him, would primarily recommend: acubas, rhododendrons, azaleas, or hydrangeas. Now there are a plethora of woody plants for the darker areas of your yard. What I am building up to is the world of Illiciums or Illicium parviflorum, illicium floridanum and illicium parviflorum anise shrubs. The leaves of this species have a distinctively pleasant scent when crushed. Most people say it smells like licorice, which is not my favorite. However, I do think it has a unique fragrance. The flowers of the floridanum have another distinctive attribute. They are pretty, a red to maroon color with a raw fishy fragrance. Some say it smells like a wet dog. This odor is not apparent unless the flower is right up to your nose. The plant usually blooms in April and May.
If you are diligent, you may find some compelling cultivars of Illicium. “Aztec Fire” has darker red flowers spring into fall once established. “Shady Lady” has variegated leaves so Nelsa Cox would be happy. “Halley’s Comet” has bright red leaves and is quite striking. “Swamp Hobbit” is a dwarf variety. It seems just about every variety of popular landscape plant has a diminutive cousin or two.
When planting your illicium in the spring or fall, be sure to dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough for the top of the root ball to just peek over the top of the ground surface. You may choose to place some aggregate stone product or other type of aggregate material at the bottom of the hole, add some water and fill in dirt, compost, or organic matter of some kind. Add two to three inches of hardwood mulch. Keep in mind the evaporation rates are much higher in the spring than fall.
Remember to water your illicium regularly for the first year. In doing so, deep, infrequent watering, especially the first year, is one of the keys to a long-term healthy plant. Another key is to try to water at the base of a plant. You can use your garden hose if it is convenient. For new plants I prefer a soaker hose or some other type of drip irrigation. It will slow water consumption. While watering in the morning is best, you can get away with evening watering, but your plants might also be more susceptible to disease. You will find that any other time of day offers only high evaporation rates in late spring and summer.
Fertilize your fairly exotic plant lightly with a slow-release fertilizer. The extension service often recommends something in the realm of a 12-6-6. Root protection can be achieved with the use of hardwood mulch or pine straw. This will also provide nutrients.
The folks at the extension service tell me the Illicium has no significant pests.
If you want to add a standout plant to your landscape collection. The illicium or anise plant is for you whether you like licorice or not.