Elderberries

Have you ever wanted to grow your own elderberries for your yard, or to cook. Here are some things to consider in the moment.

The Bushes

Aesthetically the bushes are a treasure quick to grow in the spring, they go from nothing there, to a lush tall bush. In mid summer though the fall they will fill with several off white, multi flowered clusters, that appear with a fragrance that will bring you out to the yard. When they turn to berries though small, the color is a gorgeous change, and stunning contrast against the flowers that have yet to change.

Berries

The berries are small but flavorful. The size of the berries are not the only downside to the plants. The Elderberries have to be cooked for 20 minutes on a simmer in order to remove toxins. If brought to a boil some of the flavor and nutrients are lost so keep the heat down, for excellent results.

Management

The plants can grow a bit invasively if not maintenance. The care needed is minimal, in the late fall or early winter when plants are dormant, they will need to be pruned. To prune simply cut them off at ground level. A chain saw works great or even a weed eater with a blade. In the spring they will grow right back up stronger and heathier and there will be a higher yield. With new growth comes suckers of the roots they will be soft and tender so just mow over any that try to come up in the paths or areas you don’t want elderberries growing or if in a place unable to be mowed simply use a pair of hand pruners.

Propagating

Elderberries are so easy to propagate. It can be a great learning project for the kids the root are fast growing and the green foliage can be a great way to bring a little life in the the house when its dreary outside.

Test Tubes

watching the roots start to grow can be fun. However you do not want the roots exposed to direct sunlight.

Planting

When growing indoors remember they grow quickly. Typically when growing elderberries you will by root stock, but if you have a willing neighbor it wont hurt to ask. It can be a simple way to stay involved with with your community, this day in age were everyone stays to themselves. Your wandering over on a whim might just make there day and who knows you might gain as well.

Bare root stock

When planting bare roots they benefit from a good soak. I usually let them sit in a bucket of water five to ten minutes. Then start planting directly out of the bucket. Then once put in the ground, I go back pouring the water on the newly planted plants to remove any possible air pockets around the roots.

Whatever you chose to do on your adventure remember to follow your whimsy on this wandering path of life.