Elderberry placement near lateral tree roots? - Ask Extension
I purcahased a beautiful black lace elderberry plant at the arb plant sale. The location I want to plant it in, surprisingly has large, lateral roots...
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Elderberry placement near lateral tree roots? #868749
Asked May 16, 2024, 3:29 PM EDT
I purcahased a beautiful black lace elderberry plant at the arb plant sale. The location I want to plant it in, surprisingly has large, lateral roots, 2-3 feet deep from a birch tree about 5 feet away. Would they interfere with the elderberry’s ability to obtain sufficient water & nutrients? Or do these roots get their nutrients more from their ends? Do I need to find another place for the elderberry or consider removing some of the tree roots?? Thank you for any insights!
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Elderberry has shallow root systems, often only two inches from the surface. This will allow you to plant within the the root system you mention. Also important to consider is the amount of sun available. Elderberry grows best in sun to part shade - at least 4 hours of sun is needed. Below is a link with some additional information about elderberry.
https://trees.umn.edu/elderberry-sambucus-canadensis
https://trees.umn.edu/elderberry-sambucus-canadensis