How to Propagate Elderberry Bushes

Elderberry bushes are attractive and hardy plants that grow in many areas of Europe and North America. It prefers moist, but well-drained soils, and it can often be found growing near streams and rivers. Both the white flowers and the elderberry that is produced by these bushes are useful. The flowers and the berries are used in cooking; the berries are especially popular for use in extracts and syrups. You can propagate your own elderberry bushes and have your own harvest handy whenever a recipe calls for it.

Hand pruners
Elderberry bush cuttings

Instructions

- 1
  Take cuttings from an existing bush for the easiest and most reliable way of propagating elderberry. Take hardwood cuttings about 12 inches long from an elderberry bush in the spring, before the buds break on the bush.
- 2
  Plant the cuttings in the spring as the cuttings do not take in other seasons. Select an area that has well-drained soil and plant them about 1 foot apart in rows. Make sure to leave the top bud exposed above ground level.
- 3
  Water frequently and apply a well-balanced fertilizer with nitrogen, such as 10-10-10. Your elderberry will be ready to transplant the next spring.

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