How to Plant Aronias
Aronia melanocarpa, or black chokeberry, is native to eastern North America, and has long been grown for its attractive appearance. It has only recently experienced a rise in popularity for its edible properties. The plant features white flower clusters during the springtime, and then in the fall produces dark berries and flame-colored foliage. The plant's berries have found favor for their use in juices and syrups, and, according to Iowa State University Extension, contain high levels of health-enhancing antioxidants. Plant container-grown aronia seedlings in the spring to midsummer, in a location that receives full to partial sun and possesses rich, moist, acidic soil that drains easily. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Work 2 to 3 inches of sphagnum peat moss into the top 6 inches of soil in the planting area of each aronia, to increase the soil's acidity. Space the planting sites at least 4 feet apart.
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Dig a hole for each seedling. The hole should be at least as deep as the seedling's roots, and twice as wide.
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Remove the aronia seedlings, one at a time, from their containers. Place one into each prepared hole. The root ball should be entirely underground and the lowest foliage above ground.
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Backfill each aronia. As you place dirt back into the hole, gently tamp it with your foot to ensure the removal of any air pockets.
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Water the aronias well at planting time and throughout the period during which their roots are becoming established in the soil. Keep the ground moist, but not overly wet.
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References
- Cornell University: Demand Increasing for Aronia and Elderberry in North America
- Washington State University Extension: New Alternative Fruit Crops for Western Washington
- Iowa State University Extension: Are You an Aronia Berry Fan?
- Cornell Cooperative Extension: How, When and Why of Forest Farming - Black Chokeberry
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Black Chokeberry
- Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory: Soil pH and Lime Requirement for Home Grounds Plantings
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
