The Aronia shrub, originally native right here in North America, is a total rockstar for low-maintenance gardening. Also known as the chokeberry, this plant is incredibly hardy and rewards you with super-healthy, tasty fruit every fall. It’s a fantastic choice for a privacy hedge because it grows nice and dense without needing constant attention.
Why Aronia Makes the Perfect Hedge
- You can plant Aronia shrubs close together for a seamless look.
- They provide excellent privacy for your yard.
- In the spring, you’re treated to a gorgeous display of white blossoms.
- By fall, the dark purple-to-black berries turn your hedge into a snack station for the whole family.
- The autumn foliage is stunning, turning brilliant shades of red.
- Chokeberries are easy to freeze or dry, making them perfect for stocking your pantry.
- These plants are tough and aren’t picky about where you plant them.
How to Plant Your Aronia Hedge
If you’re planning to put in an Aronia hedge, late fall is the best time to get started. Space your plants about a foot and a half to two feet apart. Make sure to dig a deep enough hole, as Aronia develops a deep root system. Place the shrub in the center, fill it back in with soil, and give it a good stomp to pack it down. Don’t forget to give it a thorough watering right away!
Enjoying Your Aronia Hedge All Year Round
Using Aronia as a hedge isn’t just about privacy; it’s a feast for the eyes. Around May, the shrub bursts into a beautiful cloud of white flowers.
As summer winds down, the green leaves shift into a fiery red, transforming your garden into a vibrant autumn landscape. This is also when the shrub is loaded with edible berries. While they are a vital food source for local birds, you can definitely harvest them for yourself. Try drying them out or tossing them in the freezer to use later. You can usually expect to harvest between 4 and 11 pounds of berries per shrub!
Pro tip: If you’re hoping for a big harvest, you might want to cover your hedge with some netting or a light mesh early on. Otherwise, the birds will definitely beat you to the berries!
