Sambucus is better known as Elder – a fully hardy, low maintenance shrub/tree which provides interest through the seasons with is leaves, flowers and berries. It is relatively fast growing with very little maintenance required, performing best in moist but well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It works as an attractive screen or among large borders or shrubberies where it will add contrast for most of the year. In spring, Sambucus produces a spectacular display of nectar rich blooms which are a magnet for bees and butterflies.

How to plant

— Plant Sambucus bare roots in spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery. Bare root plants require moisture and light soon after delivery. If you can't plant on the day of delivery, remove from the packaging and place the root in a bucket of water outside so it can soak, then plant within a week.

— Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. In a well-cultivated border, dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots so that they will be fully submerged after planting. The stem and branches should remain above the soil surface after planting. Ensure the hole is the correct depth so that the soil is level with the point at which the roots meet the stem.

— Improve the initial growing conditions by digging in some organic matter like compost or leaf mould to the planting hole, this soft medium and boost of nutrients will help the roots settle in and grow. Avoid adding too much organic matter or manure to the planting hole as this can be too rich and damage the new roots.

— Position the shrub in the hole with the most attractive side facing into the garden. When the shrub is in place, backfill the hole and firm down. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and hydrate the plant.

— If you have particularly challenging growing conditions/poor soil (heavy clay or light sandy soil) or if the border isn't ready for planting, you can pot up your bare root shrub so it can grow on and establish before transferring into a border later in the year. Pot up the bare root into a 20-30cm temporary pot using multipurpose or soil based compost. Ensure the soots are fully submerged and the stem is exposed above the soil surface. Water thoroughly and allow it to grow-on in a sheltered spot outside. They can be transplanted to suitable growing positions once growth is established and the plant easily comes out of the pot with the soil held intact in a root ball.

— When planting into the garden, choose a position in full sun or partial shade with moist but well-drained soil.

— This shrub is deciduous and will lose its leaves in autumn. It is fully hardy and does not require winter protection.

— Water immediately after planting and continue regularly for the first year while the plant settles in. Once established, watering should only be necessary in particularly dry spells.

Aftercare

— Sambucus is supplied in a dormant state and will not have any leaves on arrival. Leaves will emerge within around a month of planting.

— Minimal maintenance is required once this shrub is established, however you should prune or clip this shrub after flowering to maintain shape and encourage branching.

— Remove any dead branches when noticeable in autumn or winter.

— Mulch annually during winter or spring to maintain soil moisture and structure and add nutrients.

Read further general instructions about planting bare-root shrubs