How to prune elder

Late winter to early spring before bud break (February–March in the UK/US). For ornamental forms, cut all stems hard back to a low framework or to the ground each year for maximum foliage effect. For flower and fruit production, prune more lightly — remove one-third of the oldest stems to the base and shorten remaining stems by 20–30%. Always cut to just above a bud.

Annually. Elder (Sambucus nigra) is a fast-growing shrub or small tree that responds vigorously to hard pruning. Regular pruning controls size, prevents it becoming a large tree, and encourages the strong new growth that bears the best foliage, flowers, and berries. Without pruning it becomes a large, somewhat untidy shrub.

For ornamental forms, cut all stems hard back to a low framework or to the ground each year for maximum foliage effect. For flower and fruit production, prune more lightly — remove one-third of the oldest stems to the base and shorten remaining stems by 20–30%. Always cut to just above a bud.