Ranch Elderberry Plant

Yes. Birds, especially redwing blackbirds, love these. Don't know about keeping them away. These are a natural food source for them in the wild. You might try netting, but the berries are so small that the birds can probably get them anyway.

Yes, it is. Wonderful bush that bears heavily and reliably. One of the better syrup-making varieties.

Elderberries are not heavy feeders but benefit from a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth and fruit production. Here are some options for fertilizing elderberries:

1. Balanced Fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 5-10-10)
A balanced fertilizer works well for elderberries. Look for a product like 10-10-10 or 5-10-10 (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium). Apply about 1/2 to 1 pound of fertilizer per plant in early spring as new growth begins.
Repeat applications can be made mid-season if growth seems weak.
2. Organic Options
Compost or Aged Manure: Incorporate compost or well-aged manure around the base of the plant in early spring for a slow-release nutrient source.
Bone Meal or Rock Phosphate: For phosphorus, which supports root development and flowering.
Blood Meal or Fish Emulsion: For additional nitrogen to encourage lush green growth.
3. Specialized Berry Fertilizers
Some fertilizers are formulated specifically for fruiting plants like berries. These usually contain a balanced mix of nutrients, sometimes with added micronutrients like magnesium and zinc that can benefit elderberries.
4. Fertilizer Timing and Tips
Fertilize in early spring before growth starts and again in late spring or early summer if needed.
Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Make sure your elderberry plant is well-watered after applying fertilizer to prevent root burn and help nutrients absorb into the soil.

Yes, a type of pot.. but I wouldn’t recommend leaving it in the pot long term. I have some growing in a big bin 4’x4’. They do well.

Prices are high, but as Brenda stated above, you pay for quality. In addition to her comments, I've sometimes bought plants from big box or home improvement stores that turn out NOT to be what they were advertised as. It's quite disappointing to discover after all the time and work you've put into growing something that this is NOT a plant you even want, then dig it up. I have never had this issue from Starks. I have two plum trees at the moment from one of these stores which have a different colored plum than they were supposed to be. I think I'll end up trying to figure out what they really are when they ripen. Something to think about! Also if the size will be true to description! I experienced this too.

Stark Bro’s does not knowingly grow or offer genetically engineered plants or trees. We either graft our trees or grow them from cuttings.

Yes, Ranch elderberries (Sambucus canadensis 'Ranch') are native to North America, including Kentucky.

It was selected from the wild in the Mid West, where it is currently grown