berry The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Sambucus nigra is typically in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.
black elder
Sambucus nigra
Also Known As - European elderThe Black Elder (Sambucus nigra) is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and western and central Asia. Its dense, dark-green foliage produces steeped black berries that are edible and often used to make jellies and wine. It is an essential ingredient in medicinal compounds due to its high antioxidant content. Its flowers are white and fragrant, making it a popular ornamental plant. The Black Elder prefers sandy soils, but can grow in a variety of soils. It should be placed in a sunny area to get enough sunlight for photosynthesis and optimal growth.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Greenwood Cuttings,Hardwood Cuttings
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 8
Flowers:
White Flowers In Summer
Sun:
Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade
Soil:
Sandy Clay
Fruits:
purple,black Fruits In Summer Ready In
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,black
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Maintenance:
High
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Black elder (Sambucus nigra) should be watered as needed in the summer months. Check the soil weekly and if it feels dry 1-2 inches below the surface, water the plant deeply. Avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot and other issues. In the colder months, water less often, about every 2 weeks or so. Make sure to water at the base of the plant and avoid getting the leaves wet.
sunlight
Black Elder (Sambucus nigra) requires at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to flourish. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight in the morning and afternoon hours, avoiding the high intensity of the midday sun. Ideal daily sunlight exposure for a black elder should range from 4-7 hours per day with no more than 8 hours of direct sun. The plant should also be situated in an area that it receives ample air circulation and protection from freezing temperatures during the winter months.
pruning
Black elder (Sambucus nigra) should be pruned in early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. Pruning should be minimal and focused on removing dead or damaged branches. The best way to prune black elder is to remove 1-third of the branches each year, either by cutting down to ground level or by removing select branches into a more desired structure. Make sure to leave behind some strong, mature canes to ensure flowering and fruiting in the future. Avoid over-pruning and removing too much of the large branches or older wood. Also, avoid pruning in late summer or autumn, as these are the flowering and fruiting times.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit
Starts Flowering
Black elder typically starts flowering in May.
Harvest Fruit
berry The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Sambucus nigra is typically in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.
