ELDERBERRY WOES

Question

My common elderberry grows beautifully right up to the flowering stage, then it gets curled leaves on the branch close to the flower heads, they bloom poorly then wilt up producing no fruit. I was initially told it needed a pollinator I planted one 25′ away, it shows no sign of this illness, but my black lace elderberry 100′ away has started to develop the same symptoms. I had an insect specialist come out and he could find no signs of infestation.. suggested it may be a bacteria or fungus. I have had no luck reaching out to the local extension agency and live just far enough out I am having no luck with local ‘tree experts’. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Beings as it is Feb I have no photos to show.. Thank you all for helping if possible!

Answer 1

Unfortunately, without some help, it can be very difficult to figure out which fungus/bacteria is the culprit.

This does sound like an infection, though. They can be quite difficult to correct, but many fungicides will do the trick with a little diligence and persistence.

These articles will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/using-lime-sulfur-in-gardens.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/category/edible/fruits/elderberry