Came from an abandoned homestead and was planted in the late 1800's. A determinate variety that is more tolerant of drought and harder soils. Short season bearer. Ranch Elderberry is a compact shrub that grows to about 5 ft. Similar to Nova and York and is a good pollinator for both.
ZONE: 3-9
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Early - March/April. Somewhat self fruitful but better yielding with second variety such as Adams, York, Nova, John, Wyldewood or Bob Gordon. Wind pollinated.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full to 1/2 sun, balanced moisture in summer to increase fruit quality, reduce grass competition in root zone. Top dress with compost yearly; plants prefer soils with high organic matter, and high mycorrhizae associations - elder roots are chunky and don't have many fine roots to gather nutrients.. Try not to cultivate around brittle surface roots. Prefers evenly moist soils, but Ranch is more drought-tolerant than most. Summer or dormant prune for airflow and ease of harvest. Remove older branches as needed to invigorate harvests.
CHILL HOURS: Very low: 100 - 200 hours below 45F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Very good. No major pests or disease problems.
SIZE AT MATURITY: To 5-6' x 4'
Harvesting Elderberries from Burnt Ridge Nursery on Vimeo.
