Troubleshooting
American elderberry problems — and how to fix them
American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Elderberry aphids (Aphis sambucina)
Colonies of yellowish-green aphids can heavily infest new growth in spring and early summer, causing leaf curl and distortion. Blast off with a strong water jet; natural predator populations (ladybugs, lacewings) typically provide adequate control by midsummer.
Cane borer (Desmocerus palliatus)
The elderberry borer's larvae tunnel through the pith of canes, causing wilting and die-back of individual stems in late summer. Prune out and destroy affected canes at the first sign of wilting. Good sanitation (removing old canes) reduces the overwintering population.
Botrytis flower blight
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) can infect flower clusters during wet, cool flowering periods, turning them brown before berries can set. Improve air circulation by thinning the shrub; remove and destroy infected flower heads promptly. Avoid overhead irrigation during flowering.
Prevent american elderberry problems before they start
Most american elderberry issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for american elderberry in general rather than its problems? Read the full american elderberry care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
American elderberry problems — FAQ
Why is my american elderberry elderberry aphids (aphis sambucina)?
Colonies of yellowish-green aphids can heavily infest new growth in spring and early summer, causing leaf curl and distortion. Blast off with a strong water jet; natural predator populations (ladybugs, lacewings) typically provide adequate control by midsummer.
Why is my american elderberry cane borer (desmocerus palliatus)?
The elderberry borer's larvae tunnel through the pith of canes, causing wilting and die-back of individual stems in late summer. Prune out and destroy affected canes at the first sign of wilting. Good sanitation (removing old canes) reduces the overwintering population.
Why is my american elderberry botrytis flower blight?
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) can infect flower clusters during wet, cool flowering periods, turning them brown before berries can set. Improve air circulation by thinning the shrub; remove and destroy infected flower heads promptly. Avoid overhead irrigation during flowering.