When to Plant Elderberry

Elderberry is a hardy shrub that blooms in the late spring and produces juicy, dark berries in the late summer. If you're thinking of planting elderberry, you might be wondering when the best time is to do so. In this article, we'll give you all the information you need to know about when to plant elderberry.

Early Spring

The best time to plant elderberry is usually in the early spring, before the last frost. Elderberry is a cold-hardy shrub and can tolerate frost and snow, but it's best to get it in the ground before the temperatures start to get warmer. If you live in a mild climate where frost is not an issue, you can plant elderberry anytime in the spring.

Soil Temperature

Another factor to consider when planting elderberry is the soil temperature. Elderberry prefers soil temperatures between 60掳F and 70掳F. Depending on where you live, the soil may not reach this temperature until later in the spring. In this case, you can wait until the soil has warmed up a bit before planting.

Fall Planting

If for some reason you can't plant your elderberry in the spring, fall planting is also an option. You'll want to plant your elderberry at least six weeks before the first hard frost. This will give the shrub enough time to establish its roots before winter sets in.

Container Planting

If you don't have the space for a full-sized elderberry shrub or if you live in an apartment or condo, container planting is another option. You can plant elderberry in a large container and keep it on your patio or balcony. You'll want to make sure the container is at least 18 inches deep and 24 inches wide.

In Conclusion

In summary, the best time to plant elderberry is in the early spring, before the last frost. Elderberry prefers soil temperatures between 60掳F and 70掳F, so depending on where you live, you may need to wait until the soil has warmed up a bit. If you can't plant your elderberry in the spring, fall planting is also an option. And if you don't have the space for a full-sized shrub, container planting is another option. As always, make sure you follow the instructions on the planting tag and give your elderberry shrub plenty of care and attention.