I seem to have numerous problems getting my Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland to survive (never mind thrive!) in my garden! I've tried it 3 times and they've all disappeared despite the claims that it's a hardy plant? It's planted out in an open, sunny site next to a Purple Smoke bush and a blue butterfly hibiscus.

I know I have heavy clay soil but I've used soil conditioner and grit and manure to improve drainage.

Now, I've resorted to getting one in a pot and have left it just there. However, just today I've noticed loads of black creepy crawlies up and around the stems and the plant seems to be looking rather sorry for itself! Does anyone have any good advice to encourage a healthy Sambucus??

"Estee" wrote in message
s.com...
I seem to have numerous problems getting my Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland
to survive (never mind thrive!) in my garden! I've tried it 3 times
and they've all disappeared despite the claims that it's a hardy plant?
It's planted out in an open, sunny site next to a Purple Smoke bush and
a blue butterfly hibiscus.

I know I have heavy clay soil but I've used soil conditioner and grit
and manure to improve drainage.

Now, I've resorted to getting one in a pot and have left it just there.
However, just today I've noticed loads of black creepy crawlies up and
around the stems and the plant seems to be looking rather sorry for
itself! Does anyone have any good advice to encourage a healthy
Sambucus??
--
Estee
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posted via www.GardenBanter.co.uk

Hi,
I can't be any help - the things grow like weeds here - either in pots
or in the clay soil. Have you a particular local pest? - can neighbours grow
the stuff? I really am surprised about the pot grown ones - my sambucus
niger 'black beauty' is doing well in ordinary potting compost + the odd
feed. Sorry.
Chris S