The elderberry tree (Sambucus nigra), despite its name, has a shrub-like growth. It can be identified by its serrated leaves that grow in groups of three to nine leaves on each side of a stem. This tree has a moderate growth rate of 6 to 12 feet in the first few years of its growth. You may have to wait 2 to 3 years after planting before it bears fragrant, waxy white flowers in the spring and fruits in the autumn. Raw elderberries can be toxic to humans, dogs, and cats.
American elderberry shrubs also known as Sambucus canadensis, produce delicious berries that can be used to make jams juices, wines, and more. While relatively easy to grow, proper planting depth is crucial to ensure your elderberry shrubs thrive. In this article, we will dive into the ideal planting depth and best practices for getting your elderberry shrub’s roots settled in just right.
Why Planting Depth Matters
Planting depth is important for all plants, but especially critical for American elderberries for a few key reasons:
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Elderberry shrubs have shallow root systems that need adequate moisture. Planting too shallow can expose roots and lead to drying out, while planting too deep can cause waterlogging.
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Planting at the proper depth helps anchor the shrub properly and prevents wind damage.
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Elderberries produce suckers and new canes most vigorously when planted at the optimal depth.
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Correct depth encourages healthy root establishment and growth.
In short, ideal planting depth supports optimal moisture, anchoring, growth, and production
Determining the Correct Planting Depth
When planting bare root elderberry shrubs, the existing soil line on the plant’s stems indicates the correct depth they were previously planted. The soil line is visible as a color change on the stem.
For potted shrubs, there is no previous soil line indicator. Instead, plant them 2-4 inches deeper than the top of the root ball or potting soil level.
As a general rule of thumb for American elderberries:
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Bare root shrubs should be planted with the existing soil line 2-4 inches below the new soil surface.
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Potted shrubs should be planted with the top of the root ball 2-4 inches below the new soil surface.
Planting them slightly deeper than their previous level allows for ample moisture retention and anchoring as they establish in their new location.
Step-By-Step Planting Process
Follow this process to plant your American elderberry shrubs at the proper depth:
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Dig a hole twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root ball or spread roots. The hole should have sloped sides like a shallow bowl.
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For potted shrubs, gently remove from containers and loosen any circling roots.
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For bare root shrubs, soak roots in water for 12 hours before planting.
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Place the shrub in the planting hole. The bottom of the hole should be 2-4 inches below the shrub’s previous soil line or top of root ball.
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Backfill halfway and water thoroughly to settle soil around roots and eliminate air pockets.
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Finish backfilling the hole and firm down the soil gently.
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Water deeply again.
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Spread mulch around the base, keeping it an inch away from the stems.
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Maintain consistent moisture for the first year while roots establish.
Proper hole sizing, depth, backfilling, and watering ensures your American elderberry gets its roots thoroughly anchored. Maintaining moisture will encourage the development of a healthy, vigorous root system.
Plant Spacing
In addition to depth, proper planting spacing is also key. Space American elderberry shrubs:
- 6-8 feet apart in rows
- With 10 feet between rows
This gives them adequate room to reach mature sizes of up to 12 feet tall and wide. Close spacing can cause overcrowding and reduce productivity.
First Year Care
Caring for newly planted American elderberry shrubs will get them off to a strong start:
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Water 1-2 inches per week, especially during droughts.
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Weed regularly to reduce competition for water and nutrients.
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Hold off on fertilizer until the second year when roots are established.
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Prune only dead or damaged branches the first year.
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Protect from wind damage with stakes or trellising if needed.
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Apply winter mulch after the ground freezes in cold regions.
Proper planting depth paired with attentive first year care will ensure your American elderberries thrive for years of hardy growth and abundant fruit production. Follow these best practices for how deep to plant your shrubs, and you’ll be rewarded with a flourishing elderberry harvest in summers to come.
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Water
Give your elderberry shrubs 1 to 2 inches of water per week in the summer. A new shrub will need extra water because its roots are so shallow that it cant access water from deep in the soil. For young plants, water 2 inches per week in the warm weather. Applying 2 to 3 inches of mulch around the plants will help the soil retain moisture and serve as an organic, slow-release fertilizer.
How to Plant Elderberry Trees
If you are planting elderberry shrubs from the nursery that are about a year old, put them in the ground in the spring after the last threat of frost if you live in the northern regions of the United States.
Growing Elderberry! What you need to know!
FAQ
How deep do I plant elderberry bushes?
Do elderberry bushes have deep roots?
How to plant American elderberry?
Where is the best place to plant elderberry bushes?
How do you grow elderberry?
Monitor the area around your plant and remove weeds before they become established. The best place to plant elderberry is in an area with lots of moist soil and room to grow. It’s best not to grow this plant amidst your formal garden plants. Instead, grow elderberry in a somewhat out-of-the-way area.
How deep should elderberries be planted?
For containerized elderberries, plant them a bit deeper than the old soil level. A couple of inches or up to the first branch node is fine. Test fit the shrub in the hole and adjust the depth as necessary. If planting bare root shrubs, you’ll likely be able to see the old soil line on the trunk as a discoloration.
How tall do elderberries grow?
Elderberries grow 5 to 10 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide. Space plants at least 6 feet apart. Plant bare-root or container-grown elderberries in fall or spring. Do not plant if the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Plant elderberries in a sheltered location, out of strong winds.
Can you grow elderberry bushes in your backyard?
Learn how to grow elderberry bushes in your backyard. Elderberries ( Sambucus) are cold-hardy, fast-growing, and prolific producers. They’re becoming a must-have addition to any garden enthusiast’s yard. Elderberries will survive well even in the frigid temperatures of USDA zones 3 and 4.