Bradford Pear tree shoots from cut down tree. - Ask Extension
Two years ago we had our Bradford pear tree cut down, stump ground but apparently not all roots were removed and suckers keep popping up. What is the...
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Bradford Pear tree shoots from cut down tree. #876634
Asked July 10, 2024, 10:54 AM EDT
Two years ago we had our Bradford pear tree cut down, stump ground but apparently not all roots were removed and suckers keep popping up. What is the best way to control this. We have since planted another tree in the spot and hostas are near. I don’t want to kill those off . Do you know if something to stop this growth? They seem to pop up overnight. Thanks so much.
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Unfortunately, if all of the roots were not removed, it will continue to resprout. You can attempt to dig them out, but there is no guarantee you will be able to remove all of the roots. Depending on how your garden is planted, you can cut the sprouts, then carefully apply a herbicide directly to the cut surface of the sprout immediately after cutting. This way you are not spraying the herbicide, but instead applying it only to the cut area.
Herbicides that are recommended are glyphosate and triclopyr. You can purchase these at any big box store or garden center. Be sure to read the labels and follow the application directions.
Thank you for your question.
