The horticultural program at the University of Saskatchewan began back in 1921. In more recent years, it has gained recognition for developing new varieties of hardy fruit, such as haskaps and shrub cherries in particular. To celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2021, it was so fitting to release some new sour cherry varieties.

One was 'd'Artagnan' which is closely related to Crimson Passion and Juliet from the Romance Series. Fruit size, flavour, and quality are all very similar to these varieties. The main difference is really in the growth habit of the bush. D'Artagnan suckers freely (sends shoots up from the roots) like a red raspberry. For anyone thinking of a tight, fruiting hedge, this is actually an asset. Prepare and mulch a strip 1m (3') wide and place these plants 1 m apart down the centre of the strip, and you should get a solid hedge 1m (3') wide and 2m (6') tall. D'Artagnan has proven to be the most consistently productive cherry, even after brutally harsh winters.

SELF-FERTILE | ZONE 2/3 | HARVEST : LATE JULY