Tree suckers, also known as basal shoots, root sprouts, adventitious shoots, or basal sprouts, are vegetative growths that emerge from the base of a tree’s trunk or from its roots. These shoots often arise from dormant buds located on the root system or just below the soil surface.
While tree suckers can sometimes be beneficial for propagating certain species or aiding in forest regeneration, they are generally considered undesirable in horticulture and forestry management due to their potential to compete with the main tree for resources and disrupt the desired form and growth pattern of the tree. In botany and ecology, tree suckers are a form of vegetative reproduction commonly observed in various tree species.
This process allows trees to regenerate and expand their populations by producing new shoots from their root systems. In some cases, such as in ecosystems where disturbances like fire or logging have occurred, tree suckers play a crucial role in the recovery and regeneration of forests. They can rapidly colonize open spaces and contribute to the establishment of a new forest canopy. However, in horticulture and forestry, tree suckers are often considered a nuisance.
When left unchecked, they can divert valuable resources such as water, nutrients, and sunlight away from the main tree, resulting in reduced growth rates and overall vigor. Additionally, tree suckers can alter the aesthetic appearance of trees and interfere with management practices such as pruning and harvesting. In orchards and urban landscapes, controlling tree suckers is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of trees and ensuring optimal fruit production.
Various methods can be employed to control tree suckers, including mechanical removal, chemical treatments, and cultural practices. Mechanical removal involves physically cutting or pulling out the suckers
from the base of the tree or along the root system. However, this method may need to be repeated regularly as new suckers emerge. Chemical treatments, such as applying herbicides to the cut surface of the suckers, can effectively inhibit regrowth but require careful application to avoid harming the main tree or surrounding vegetation.
Cultural practices like proper pruning and mulching can also help minimize sucker growth by promoting the development of a strong central leader and reducing stress on the tree. Suckers can also happen in grafted trees,
where the stem of one plant is fused with the rootstalk of another. Suckers can sprout if the base of the stem fails, and the rootstock begins to send out its suckers. Grafts typically fail on smaller ornamental trees, such as crabapples or redbuds, so it’s important to keep an eye on your trees and take action as soon as possible to stop tree suckers.
- Avoid pruning too much, as over-pruning can encourage the growth of tree suckers, especially when it’s a few years old.
- To aid wound healing, cut the plant sucker as near the tree as possible, but leave the collar at the point where the tree sucker and the tree connect.
- For young sprouts, you don’t need to create a clean cut since the wound will heal quickly. You can even rub the sprouts off with your thumb if you catch them early enough.
- You can use herbicide to kill the suckers and prevent regrowth, if you have a challenging case on your hands! Just make sure it includes glyphosate and follow the instructions carefully.
Further Reading
Sources
- Grown Ups “Basal shoots and suckers” https://grownups.co.nz/life/gardening/basal-shoots-suckers/
- Wikipedia “Basal shoot” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basal_shoot
- Dammann’s “HOW TO MANAGE TREE SUCKERS” https://www.dammannsgardenco.com/blog/how-to-manage-tree-suckers
- Love Your Landscape “DEALING WITH TREE SUCKERS” https://www.loveyourlandscape.org/expert-advice/tree-care/insects-and-disease/dealing-with-tree-suckers/
- Gardening Know How “Tree Sucker Removal And Tree Sucker Control” https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-sucker-removal-and-tree-sucker-control.htm
