Elder Borer - Ask Extension
I have a blue and orange beetle on my elderberry bushes, from internet searches it looks to be an elder borer. There are also white worms on the leav...
Knowledgebase
Elder Borer #755153
Asked June 09, 2021, 5:58 PM EDT
I have a blue and orange beetle on my elderberry bushes, from internet searches it looks to be an elder borer. There are also white worms on the leaves, is this the larvae? How damaging are these bugs to my elderberry crop?
Franklin County Vermont
Expert Response
Hello Lisa,
Yes, white grubs will bore into canes. Prune out infested elderberry canes and discard them (not in a compost pile). The Borer will also lay eggs on leaves or canes near the ground. I don't find any other solution for keeping the plants happy than to prune the damage. I do know they need plenty of water. So prune, water, and stay vigilant. I do know that my Sambucus (elderberry) can be pruned way back and will recover well. Again, water deeply.
Good Luck.
Kathy EMG
