Our Blog

If you’re planning to grow elderberries—or you’ve spotted a shrub and think it might be one—learning how to identify the American elderberry is an important first step. American elderberry is commonly known as Sambucus canadensis (also often classified as Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis), and it has a few clear features...

If you want a practical and affordable way to grow more elderberry plants, taking your own cuttings is one of the best methods. It’s a classic DIY approach: simple tools, a little patience, and a much faster path than growing elderberry from seed. For a future farm, backyard project, or...

Growing elderberry from seed is a slower path than buying established plants or cuttings, but it can be a rewarding one. If you enjoy the process of starting plants from scratch, elderberry seeds offer a hands-on way to learn the crop from the very beginning. The most important thing to...

If you already make elderberry syrup, this is a great next recipe to try. Elderberry honey cough drops are simple, soothing, and easy to keep on hand during cold weather. They combine the rich berry flavor of elderberry with honey, lemon, and ginger for a comforting homemade option. This version...

When I first decided to start Elderberry Edge Farm in Wisconsin, I thought the hardest part would be soil prep, plant spacing, and figuring out the long-term farm plan. I was wrong. One of the first things that stopped me in my tracks was a much simpler question: “Wait… are...

Elderberries are one of those ingredients that feel both traditional and surprisingly versatile. Their flavor is deep, tart, and rich—somewhere between blackberry, blackcurrant, and a lightly earthy wild berry. That makes them perfect for more than just one use. With the right preparation, elderberries can become syrups, jams, warm drinks,...

Elderberries have a deep, dark flavor that is often described as earthy, tart, and slightly wine-like. They are not as sweet as blueberries and not as sharp as cranberries, which makes them especially interesting in the kitchen. When used well, elderberries can bring richness, color, and a more complex fruit...