Red-berried elder: when and how to prune

Red-berried elder: when to prune it?

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While dormant in winter (November–March).

Prune while dormant, from November to March, but not in freezing weather.

What else to prune in those months? January · February · March · November · December

Red-berried elder: how to prune it?

1. Every few years, saw the oldest branches off at ground level; it readily sprouts again.
2. Remove dead branches and those growing inwards.
3. Varieties with golden or cut leaves can be cut back hard at the end of February: they then produce large, decorative leaves, but fewer flowers and berries.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: November–March.
• Can be cut back to just above the ground every few years and will then regrow.
• Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Elder
• Common dogwood
• Hazel
• Red-barked dogwood
• Almond willow
• Filbert

Similar to: Difference from elder · Difference from guelder rose

Plant profile: Red-berried elder · Pruning calendar and basic rules