Without regular pruning, elderberry can grow to impressive sizes. Alternatively, you can train it into a space-saving standard tree.
Key Points:
- Why prune? Unpruned elderberry can grow up to seven meters tall, become overgrown, and lose its shape. Pruning keeps it compact and productive.
- When to prune? Mainly in late winter or early spring. A light trim can also be done after harvesting.
- How to prune?
- Remove weak or old shoots.
- Cut back harvested branches in late winter.
- Train young plants into a standard tree by selecting one main shoot and regularly trimming side shoots.
Training Elderberry as a Standard Tree:
- Young Plant: Remove all shoots except for one straight and strong main stem. Use a support stake if needed.
- Shaping: Trim the main stem to your desired trunk height, leaving 3–4 buds (knobs). Remove any shoots below the crown.
- Maintenance: In the second year, shorten side branches to small stubs with 2–4 buds. From the third year onward, cut back old fruiting branches each winter while keeping 10–15 new shoots for fruiting.
Benefits of Standard Tree Training:
- Compact, space-saving form.
- Easier harvest without a ladder.
- Prevents the plant from becoming overgrown.
Elderberry Varieties for Your Garden:
- Sambucus nigra ‘Haschberg’ or ‘Sampo’: Large, high-yielding berries.
- Ornamental varieties like ‘Black Lace’ or ‘Aurea’: Beautiful foliage with edible fruits.