Growing Guide: Hojas de Tronadora

Plant Type	Perennial Herb
Harvest Season	Spring to early Summer
Mature Size	1-3 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide
Soil & Moisture	Prefers well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Tolerates poor soil conditions but thrives in rich, loamy soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Light Requirements	Full Sun, Part Shade
Growth Rate	Fast
Self-fertile	Yes
Zone Hardiness	Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation	Our Hojas de Tronador is grown from cuttings and seed, capable of harvesting within a growing season.

Climate: Yellow Elder thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. The plant prefers temperatures between 70-95°F and can tolerate light frosts.
Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). The plant can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.

Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Yellow Elder can tolerate partial shade but will have better growth and flowering in full sun.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
Planting Time: Plant young shrubs in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Space plants 3-6 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.
Container Planting: Yellow Elder can also be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.

Establishment Phase: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first year. Consistent moisture is crucial for young plants.
Mature Plants: Once established, Yellow Elder is somewhat drought-tolerant. Water deeply and less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

Full Sun: Ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and prolific flowering.

Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Supplement with organic matter or compost.
Frequency: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, especially if grown in containers or poor soil.

Routine Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more flowers.
Maintenance: Yellow Elder requires minimal maintenance once established. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Diseases: Watch for signs of fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk. Apply fungicides if necessary.

When to Harvest: Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried, when the essential oils are most concentrated.
How to Harvest: Use scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves, taking care not to damage the main stems. Harvesting regularly encourages new growth and maintains the plant's shape.