How to prune elderberry 'nova'

Late winter to early spring, while fully dormant before bud break. Use loppers or a pruning saw to remove the oldest, thickest canes at ground level each year (renewal pruning). Also tip back long, arching canes by one-third to encourage branching and heavier fruit clusters.

Annually. Elderberry 'Nova' is a vigorous shrub that benefits from annual pruning to maintain productivity and shape. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing canes each dormant season. After the third year, cut one-third of the oldest canes to the ground each year to encourage strong new fruiting wood and prevent the center from becoming congested.

Use loppers or a pruning saw to remove the oldest, thickest canes at ground level each year (renewal pruning). Also tip back long, arching canes by one-third to encourage branching and heavier fruit clusters.