Elderberries

I’ve read contradictory instructions about whether elderberries can stand a site that’s not too well drained. Can anyone clear this up for me? I have used up all the best plantings sites in my yard. It’s getting pretty crowded.

I have one growing in a pretty moist spot, and it's doing really well. It's grown a few feet this year and was only a foot tall when I planted it this spring.

I had a second one that was doing well... until I didn't protect it from a deer, and the deer munched it down to the ground.

Ive got one growing great in a soggy spot. Seems to thrive.

They grow very well everywhere here.
Next to creeks or in amongst pine trees.
Very adaptable and wherever birds drop seed.

I've got a soggy spot!

I'll try an elderberry....

They grew ok in my old bog, standing water for 8 months of the year, yes the trees were smaller than the ones at this site on well drained sand/chalk, but they grew and fruited fine. so while they might perhaps perfer dry feet they will live with wet ones without a problem.

I have about a dozen in mostly poor draining clay soil. One is in a small pit that collects extra water when it rains. Heavily mulched with leaves so it retains water well. Doesn't seem to be a problem.

Great! Thanks everybody. It sounds like I can put them in my worst spot.