Elderberries
Sambucus
Even just a couple of these hardy bushes will produce lots of delicious berries, which make excellent pies and jams. The berries are also said to have antiviral properties. If properly taken care of, elderberry plants will produce for decades!
How to Grow Elderberries
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Growing from Seed
Elderberry is not typically grown from seed.
Planting Considerations
It is recommended that you have at least two elderberry plants, each of different varieties, so they can cross-pollinate. This leads to greater and more reliable fruit production. Elderberry plants prefer well-drained soil. Do not disturb soil once plants are situated, or you run the risk of harming the plants’ shallow roots. Be sure to keep weeds under control, especially at first. Mulching can help with weed control.
Feeding
Work organic matter into the soil before transplanting elderberries. Additionally, fertilize your plants every spring. Ammonium nitrate is recommended as an effective fertilizer. A 10-10-10 NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilizer will work as well.
Harvesting
Elderberries are usually ready to harvest sometime between August and September. Remove entire clusters, then strip off the individual berries. The berries are inedible until cooked.
Storage
Cooked elderberries can be used in pies, jams, wines, or syrups. Uncooked elderberries can be frozen and cooked after thawing.
