I don't have elderberries, but we do have a large black mulberry tree that's about 30 feet tall. This season it has produced berries but none have ripened. In fact, they're drying up and falling off green. I suspect that the unusually dry weather from this year and even last has affected our tree and maybe yours?

In all the years we've lived here, the black mulberries have usually ripened in August, and the tree would be filled with squirrels and birds. Even the dreaded monk parakeets that plague our CT shoreline would flock to our tree. This year... nothing.

we didn't have the drought problem southern new england had. if anything it was a pretty wet summer. and there were several times i watered when there was a week or so dry spell just to help the berries develop so i don't think moisture was a issue. they are in full sun till' 2pm then part shade so i think they get plenty of sun. thanks for your insight though.

Sorry I could steer you in a helpful direction. Have you contacted any local growers in your area for advice on these plants? The only grower in Maine that I know is Carol of Carol's Collectibles... she's in Swanville, which is below you. Don't know if Carol has propagated/sold this plant, but you may want to contact her and ask for advice. She has extensive knowledge.

Otherwise, if you don't get advice here, you could try posting on the Trees and Shrubs forum.

thanks ! i wish there was more info on the cultivars I've planted. I've found a few places that say there hardy to zone 3. and american elderberry in general is hardy to zone 3. it could very well be that its their 1st. year producing so their vigor is a little behind yet. thanks for the help!