An elder tree as a standard is extremely decorative due to the overhanging branches. This growth form is also more practical for harvesting. You can find out here how easy it is to train the tree, which tolerates pruning, to a standard.
Step by step to the high trunk
Experience has shown that the upbringing of an elderberry is more successful at a young age than at an advanced age. In principle, it is possible thanks to the compatibility with cuts in every phase of life. In small gardens in particular, hobby gardeners have struggled with the increasing volume of black elder over the years, so that cultivating a standard tree is a sensible alternative to clearing. Here's how to do it:
- choose a centrally positioned, straight branch for the trunk
- remove all competitive instincts at the base
- Cut off the side shoots to the desired crown height
- secure the main branch of a young elder with a stake
In the following period, all shoots that sprout from the base are consistently removed. Ideally, you tear out these branches, as this will leave less residue on the bark. In addition, all side shoots that appear as the growth progresses are cut off.
A beautiful crown forms through the right cut
Since an elder always bears its blossoms and fruits on the two-year-old wood, the pruning and pruning takes place immediately after the harvest. At a later date, you risk depriving yourself of next year's harvest prematurely. With a careful cut, you not only form a harmonious crown, but also improve the vitality of the elder tree. That's how it's done:
- dry, slightly overcast weather prevails
- the cutting tool is freshly ground and disinfected
- Cut off all dead wood and stunted branches
- Cut the harvested branches to the desired length
- If the fruit shoots are too long, only prune them a little if necessary
- make each cut 3-5 mm diagonally above a bud
A symmetrical arrangement of the side branches is desirable, with a roof angle being formed at the top. In order to achieve this juice level, the practiced hobby gardener takes a few steps back and plans the further cut.
tips and tricks
Experienced hobby gardeners do not leave any branch stumps. These 'coat hooks' open the door to cunning pests and fungal spores. A cut up to just before the knot ring is ideal so that the bark is not damaged.