Wondering how to stop tree root sprouts, otherwise known as tree suckers? In this post, Rockoff Tree Solutions, your go-to arborist services in Boerne, explains more about this topic.
Why Do Trees Regrow After You Cut Them Down?
Trees are amazingly resilient when they’re in the right location. The root system stores nutrients to feed the tree during winter. If you cut down a particularly aggressive grower, like a willow, linden, ash, or maple, they can use these resources to start growing suckers. It’s a survival mechanism that will kick into gear unless you somehow damage the tree roots.
How to Stop Sucker Growth
Want to know how to stop tree root sprouts for sure? You have to permanently kill the tree roots and the stump or remove them altogether. The latter is expensive and difficult, so we’ll focus on the former.
1. Use a Stump Grinder
We recommend you let us handle this task, as we grind the stump to a few inches below ground level. The machine we use is powerful and takes experience to manage correctly.
2. Try Epsom Salt
This home remedy might surprise you, especially if you use these salts for tree care, like feeding your pomegranates. However, while this compound is useful in small doses, it can kill a stump in large doses.
The one caveat is that you must be patient, as this method takes time. The upside is that it isn’t toxic to surrounding trees like a herbicide would be.
Drill many holes to a depth of around eight inches in the stump. Fill each one with Epsom Salt and moisten it a little. Repeat this every three weeks, checking if you need a top-up if it rains. Continue until the stump turns brittle and dark.
3. Burn the Stump
We suggest giving this method a wide berth if you’re in a built-up area because the stump can smolder for days. It’s also easy for the embers to spark up and the fire to spread. You’ll also need to check your local ordinances to see if and when you can burn it.
If you have the go-ahead, clear any dry debris around the stump and dampen the rest. Then, drill about eight 10-inch holes into it. Fill these with kerosene and let it soak in. Top up the kerosene the next day and give it another day to permeate the wood.
On the day you’re burning the stump, put charcoal on top of and around it. Then ignite it and let it burn. Keep an eye on the fire so it doesn’t burn out of control. Always keep water or a fire extinguisher at hand in case the fire spreads.
Then, let the wood burn to ash and either remove the residue or dig it in.
4. Use an Herbicide
This preventative measure works best just after you fell the tree. If you wait until the sprouts appear, your chances of success dwindle. However, check the rain forecast before you apply the chemicals.
If you expect rain in the next 24 hours, wait until it passes. Alternatively, you can apply it if you can cover the stump with a waterproof tarp. Apply the liquid as per the manufacturer’s instructions, avoiding nearby plants.
Contact Our Team for a Definitive Solution
Now that you know how to stop tree root sprouts, would you like some help? Do you require assistance with another issue, like tree root care? Whatever your needs, Rockoff Tree Solutions is here for you. Call us at (830) 955-0304 to schedule a consultation today!
