Propagating Elderberry.  As soon as you receive the cuttings, start by soaking the slanted end of the cuttings in water for 24 hours to thoroughly rehydrate them.  Prepare a tray of pots with moistened potting soil. Since the Elderberry cuttings have been soaking in water, the “root” end will be wet which is perfect for dipping into the rooting hormone that is included. Cover the root end 1” up the sides with the rooting hormone.  The slanted cut end is the “root” end of the cutting. If you forget, you can look at the buds on the stick, they should be pointing up. When preparing the pots, be sure the hole is 2” deep and wider than your root so the rooting hormone doesn’t come off when placing the root into the soil. Then add soil around the root end and press down on the soil. Once they are in the pots, to encourage root growth, it’s important to keep them cool (but not cold). The best temperature is about 40 degrees F, out of direct sunlight and wind, like a garage, cellar, or basement.  Warm temperature and sunlight will encourage leaf growth instead of root growth. Live them in a cool, dark, and moist area for 8-10 weeks. Elderberries should be planted in the spring, once the danger of frost has passed. Elderberries can be planted in full to partial shade, preferable full sun.  Proper drainage is key to preventing root rot, so avoid any place prone to standing water. As with any plant, carefully ensure that they are watered well. Elderberries can handle (and need) a good amount of water at first. As long as the moisture can drain away from the base of the plant, there is little risk of overwatering. Since mature bushes grow up to 20 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide, it is recommended that you plant in pairs, no more than 60 feet apart, for the full benefit of cross pollination (more fruit to enjoy!)   Any questions please email us at BuyComfrey@gmail.com I’m excited for you to get them growing. Enjoy! Thank you for your business!