Elder trees – Elderflower

Elder is a hard to kill prolific shrub

Elder is an ancient British favourite amongst tree producing wonderful scented flowers for elderflower cordial and berries for elderberry wine. However, in NZ it is incredibly prolific and once planted spreads everywhere. And because it is incredibly prolific in growth it is really tough to kill when it has exceeded it's desired potential in your garden.

Elder is very easy to identify when it’s in flower

Elder tree flower — Elderflower from the Elder Tree

Or in fruit

The bark is very obvious to identify

Use both Bamboo Buster Weed Gel and Cut’n’Paste MetGel Weed Gel together after cutting the tree down, pasting immediately after cutting and pasting the cut surface and some surrounding bark. Chip and paste any exposed roots. Retreat any regrowth and any new shoots that form on the cut stump as soon as they appear.

Important Notes:

⚠️ Safety Warning: MetGel and Picloram / Picloram Plus+ have significantly more residual soil activity than the glyphosate gels, and can move through ground moisture. MetGel has a soil half-life of roughly 30–90 days, and Picloram roughly 2–6 months, perhaps longer in clay soils. Do not use either near desirable non-target plants, within the root zone of prized trees, or around waterways and wetlands.
When using MetGel or Picloram, never apply it inside the drip line (canopy edge) of prized trees or broadleaf garden plants. On flat ground, keep a 3 to 5-metre safety buffer. On sloping ground where the weed is uphill from desirable species, extend that buffer to 5 to 10 metres.
Weeds often grow along streams and in gullies. If you’re working near waterways, use Bamboo Buster. Do not allow any weed gel to enter the water.
Only treat weeds / target plants / trees that are on your property, or that you have permission to treat. Be aware that some species might have protection status or have a notable status, or be a designated scheduled tree under the district plan – if in doubt, check with your local council.
Safety First: Wear gloves and protective clothing and observe all safety protocols, especially when using machinery, chainsaws and other tools.
When using any herbicide ensure you READ THE LABEL THOROUGHLY, and follow all instructions and directions for the purchase, use and storage of the product.
If in doubt, seek professional advice.