Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) Agriculture

The Aronia plant, which is very resistant to cold weather, needs chilling for the flowering of plants that have reached generative maturity. Although this period is not known exactly, it is thought to be around 800-1000 hours. Due to its late flowering, it is not damaged by late spring frosts. Different planting distances are indicated in the sources for aronia. It can be planted at 3x2 m or 4x1.5 m intervals, depending on soil conditions and harvesting method. If the cultivation will be done in small areas, the planting spacing should be 3x2 m. If gardens are to be established in commercially large areas, the planting distance should be 4x1.5 m. Burying the root collar 2-3 cm into the soil during planting provides an advantage in creating bottom shoots. From the 2nd and 3rd years following planting, yield is obtained from the plant. Aronia reaches full yield at the age of 5 years. After the age of 5, the yield per plant increases to 10-17 kg. Average yield per plant is around 10 kg.