Troubleshooting
Elder problems — and how to fix them
Elder (Sambucus nigra) 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.
Suckering and rampant growth
Spreads by suckers and seed and grows quickly; site with room, or coppice hard in late winter to control size.
Aphid and blackfly infestation
Soft new shoots attract heavy aphid colonies; tolerate minor outbreaks for beneficial insects, or wash off with water.
Powdery mildew and leaf spot
Fungal foliage problems appear in crowded, humid sites; prune for airflow and clear fallen leaves.
Toxic raw plant tissue
Raw berries, leaves and stems are poisonous; always cook flowers and berries and keep children and pets from browsing.
Prevent elder problems before they start
Most elder issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for elder in general rather than its problems? Read the full elder care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Elder problems — FAQ
Why is my elder suckering and rampant growth?
Spreads by suckers and seed and grows quickly; site with room, or coppice hard in late winter to control size.
Why is my elder aphid and blackfly infestation?
Soft new shoots attract heavy aphid colonies; tolerate minor outbreaks for beneficial insects, or wash off with water.
Why is my elder powdery mildew and leaf spot?
Fungal foliage problems appear in crowded, humid sites; prune for airflow and clear fallen leaves.
Why is my elder toxic raw plant tissue?
Raw berries, leaves and stems are poisonous; always cook flowers and berries and keep children and pets from browsing.