Planting Elderberry Plants

Few things are as delicious as homegrown berries, and the success of your harvest begins right with the planting site and method. For maximum growth and yields later on, give your plants the best foundation possible.

NOTE: This is part 3 in a series of 9 articles. For a complete background on how to grow elderberry plants, we recommend starting from the beginning.

Before Planting

Before you plant, check your soil pH. Contact your local County Extension Office for information about soil testing in your area, or purchase one of our digital meters for quick and accurate results. Ideally, elderberries need a soil pH between 5.5-6.5. Elderberries grow well in a wide range of soils, but do best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil.

Planting Tips

  • Pick a location with full sun.
  • Incorporate manure or compost before planting.
  • Plant elderberries 6-8 feet apart in rows 10 feet apart.
  • Plant 2 inches deeper than grown in the nursery.
  • Water the plant thoroughly.
  • No fertilizers should be applied in the first year.
  • Elderberries are shallow rooted; keep them well watered the first season.

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Tools & Supplies for Elderberry Plants