Fertilizing Elderberry Plants

Fertilize annually in early spring to strengthen roots and stimulate fruit production. Young elderberry plants should receive 3 to 4 tablespoons of a high-nitrogen fertilizer. Older plants should receive 1 to 2 cups--not to exceed one pound per plant.

NOTE: This is part 4 in a series of 9 articles. For a complete background on how to grow elderberry plants, we recommend starting from the beginning.

You can judge the need for fertilizer by looking at the bush. If the bush is very vigorous (producing a lot of new growth), reduce the nitrogen by half or eliminate it altogether. If growth is moderate but the plants still appear healthy, apply the recommended amount. If few new canes are produced and growth appears poor, increase nitrogen application by half.

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Tools & Supplies for Elderberry Plants