tree sprouts

Sprouts or suckers from the base of a tree can be difficult to deal with. There is not a lot of alternatives except to cut them out. Instead of just cutting off at the ground level attempt to remove just below the soil level.

There is a product on the market that will reduce suckering or slow the growth. It is expensive and works so-so. Most people I know that have used it goes back to just cutting off the sprouts.

Using a general herbicide can damage the tree as the suckers are part of the tree. Bottom line deal with them and in the future avoid trees prone to sprouts.

Dennis Patton
Johnson County Extension