did you know?

Very few plants are able to extract nitrogen from the air. However, black alder is able to do so?which helps explain why this species tolerates poor soil conditions.

general maintenance:

Black alder seldom requires pruning, but do remove diseased or damaged branches.

pests/diseases:

Several diseases may affect the black alder, but none are serious, and it should be considered relatively carefree.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny to partly sunny site with well-drained soil, making sure there is enough room for shrub to grow to its mature spread. In early spring, dig a hole twice the width of container or root ball. Set plant in hole at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot, or if balled, even with top of root ball. Fill in hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of the hole to act as a catchbasin. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, carefully remove before planting. Burlap may be left around root ball and peeled back and left in ground once plant is set in hole. Water thoroughly, filling basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around base of plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture the first season. Be sure soil is moist before the ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once shrub is established, usually by the third year, water only during drought.

garden hint:

The black alder is a great choice for moist or wet areas where soil fertility is low.

features:

• Attractive Fruit
• Deciduous
• Shade Tolerant
• Wet Tolerant

garden uses:

• Naturalizing

other uses: