American elder

American elder (Sambucus canadensis 'Aurea') likes lots of sun and light watering. It will benefit from a deep soaking once or twice a week. Ensure that the soil has had time to dry out between waterings and that it is not left wet. Depending on the temperature, soil type, and humidity, the amount of water you give may vary, but it should usually be approximately 1-1.5 inches per week. If the plant gets too dry and the soil begins to pull away from the side of the pot, it should be given a thorough soaking and allowed to drain properly before being placed back in its container. Provide mulch around the plant to help keep the soil moist and cooler in the hot summer months.

American elder (Sambucus canadensis 'Aurea') is a deciduous, flowering, shrubby species native to North America. This plant thrives best when it has full sun, meaning at least 6-8 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight every day. However, it can tolerate moderate amounts of shade and will survive in partial sun locations. American elder is a fast-growing species that can become woody over time, so regular sunlight is important to keep it healthy and vigorous. For optimal growth, it should be planted in a location where the sun is consistently bright for most of the day. On hot summer days, breaking up the direct sun exposure with a few hours of shade during the hottest part of the day will help ensure that the plant receives all the light it needs without overheating.

Pruning American elder should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. The best time to prune is when the plant is dormant, so any cuts made will have time to heal. Pruning should be done to encourage healthy growth and reduce the amount of dead or diseased branches. Generally, cutting branches just above a healthy bud at a 45-degree angle will maintain a natural shape while also allowing for adequate light and air circulation. Large amounts of growth should be removed, as they can create dense, weakly attached branches. Dead, diseased, or crossed branches should also be removed to prevent the spread of illness and pests throughout the plant. Pruning should be limited to no more than ⅓ of the total growth to ensure the survival of the plant.