B Grade Aronia Berry (Aronia melanocarpa)

2 year old bare root seedling

‘Grade B’ plants are smaller seedlings that finished the season a bit undersized to be considered ready for field planting for many folks. They are healthy and alive, but a bit small (usually less than 8") and able to get lost in the weeds quickly. They can be field planted to their final homes if you are on top of  watering, mulching, and weeding. We recommend  planting them in a home nursery bed to grow for one full season, develop much larger root systems and be very ready for tougher conditions and less care next year. This is an affordable and sensible way to start small so you can go big with your plantings.

1-2 year old 8"-16” Seedling

Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as Aronia Berry or Black Chokeberry, is an easy to grow and nutritious shrub, increasingly popular in gardens and food forests for its resilience, bountiful harvest, and health benefits. If you’ve had trouble with blueberries give these a shot instead!

Growing Conditions:

• Soil: Aronia Berry thrives in a variety of soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is tolerant of both acidic and alkaline pH levels, making it adaptable to different soil conditions.
• Water: While established plants are drought-resistant, consistent watering during the initial growth phase ensures a healthy root system and optimal growth.
• Sunlight: This shrub favors full sun but can also flourish in partial shade. Full sun exposure leads to more abundant berry production.

Food Forest Applications: Aronia Berry is an excellent choice for food forest systems due to its ecological versatility and the minimal care it requires. It can serve as an understory shrub in larger forest systems or as part of a layered permaculture garden. Its dense growth habit also makes it useful for creating natural borders or wildlife habitats.

Berries and Health Benefits:

• Nutrient-Rich Berries: Aronia berries are packed with nutrients and have one of the highest concentrations of antioxidants among fruits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids, which contribute to overall health and wellness.
• Health Benefits: Regular consumption of Aronia berries has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and potential anti-cancer properties.

Culinary Uses and Preservation:

• Uses in the Kitchen: Although the raw berries are astringent, they transform when cooked, making excellent ingredients for jams, jellies, syrups, and baked goods. They can also be incorporated into smoothies or used as a natural food coloring.
• Preservation: Aronia berries freeze well, retaining their nutritional value, which makes them ideal for long-term storage and use throughout the year.