When to Plant Elderberry in Arcata, California (95521)

Location

Arcata, California

ZIP Code

95521

USDA Zone

Last Frost

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

📅 Planting Calendar

Direct Sow Outdoors Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Pro Tip: Sow Elderberry directly outdoors 2 weeks before your last frost date.

🌿 Plant Details

Scientific Name Sambucus nigra

Days to Maturity 730 days

Mature Height 60-120"

Spread 60"

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun to Partial Shade

💧

Water

Regular (1-2 inches/week)

↔️

Spacing

60" apart

🌱

Planting Depth

4" deep

Seeds typically germinate in 30-60 days

Ready to Plant Elderberry in Arcata?

Get your seeds now so they're ready by Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

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Growing Elderberry in Zone 9b

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a popular garden vegetable. In Arcata, California, which is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b, you should direct sow seeds around Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Your average last frost date is Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Elderberry grows well when direct sown, as it doesn't transplant well or germinates quickly outdoors.