Elderberry Farming Tips in India - Elderberry Benefits

Elderberry improves heart health by reducing blood fat and cholesterol levels. Diets rich in flavonoids like anthocyanins can also lower heart disease risk.

Elderberries need slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). Soil tests guide nutrient management. Based on their growth and yield, mature shrubs may require up to 80 lbs of nitrogen per acre.

Elderberry rows are spaced 10-12 feet apart for machinery use. Plants within rows are 4-5 feet apart. They form a hedge in 2-3 years due to frequent suckering.

Elderberries are drought-tolerant, but regular watering boosts fruit quality and yield. In summer, they need 1-2 inches of water weekly. Mulching helps conserve moisture and control weeds.

You can use granular, liquid, or stake fertilizers. For granular types, mix 2 lbs or 2 pints per 100 sq ft into the soil around the plant or drill 6" deep holes at the drip line.

Elderberry flowers on large cymes are easily harvested by snipping the main stem. When freshly opened, they are placed in a crate. Initially creamy yellow, they turn white as the fruit develops.