In wild gardens, elder bushes are a defining feature. They are widespread in local forests and provide not only edible fruits but also aromatic flowers. The season begins in spring when the flower umbels are fully open.
When is elderflower season?
The elderflower season begins in spring and lasts from May to July. During this time, the aromatic flower umbels of black elderberry bushes (Sambucus nigra) can be harvested and used in the kitchen.
Harvest season
The black elderberry has a particularly long season due to its versatility. The flowering period of this species extends from May to July, while its fruits are ready to harvest from August to September. Flowers and berries provide ingredients for the kitchen.
Elderberry thrives here
In Central Europe, Sambucus nigra is one of the most common shrub species. The tree is undemanding and robust, which is advantageous for its wide distribution. The frost-hardy plant prefers partially shaded conditions and grows on medium-heavy or sandy soils. They are ideally rich in nitrogen and offer fresh conditions. Slightly acidic clay soils provide a perfect basis for growth. The elderberry is a typical species in weed fields, in forest clearings or on roadsides.
Growing
If you want to cultivate the shrub yourself in the garden, you can cut cuttings in midsummer. These should be about ten centimeters long and not completely woody. Halve all leaves to reduce water loss. Place the shoots in a glass of water in a bright and warm place. After a few weeks the first roots will appear, so you can cultivate the young plants in pots.
Planting out
The uncomplicated plant can be planted in the garden until the onset of winter. Loosen the subsoil down to the deeper layers and improve it with compost. Insert the young plants into the soil and press the substrate firmly. Water the plant well and ensure a regular water supply in the first year.
Collecting
Fabric bags and wicker baskets are ideal for harvesting the elderflower umbels, because the plant parts are stored loosely and well ventilated here. Condensation quickly forms in lockable collection containers and the quality drops.
How to do it right:
- Don't break off the umbels, cut them off with scissors
- Shake or tap stems gently to remove insects
- proceed extremely carefully so that the pollen does not disappear
The ideal time
The flowers are particularly aromatic when the shrub has been allowed to enjoy dry and sunny weather for a few days. Pick the flower umbels in the morning or mid-morning, as the flavor intensity decreases as the day progresses. Rain washes out the pollen, so the aroma is less intense. Moisture also promotes the formation of mold.
Tip
Let the flowers steep in milk, strain out the plant parts and beat a mixture of egg yolk and sugar. Add this to the simmering elderflower milk and once cooled add whipped cream. In the freezer, the mixture freezes into elderflower ice cream.