Crabapple? Or Buckthorn? - Ask Extension
Hello, I need assistance identifying a plant. I had a crabapple in my yard. I had to cut it down due to the rabbits damaging the bark and killing th...
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Crabapple? Or Buckthorn? #879888
Asked August 02, 2024, 11:53 AM EDT
Hello, I need assistance identifying a plant. I had a crabapple in my yard. I had to cut it down due to the rabbits damaging the bark and killing the tree. I left the root ball in place.
This summer, a small sprout has appeared in the area of the root ball. See attached photo. I think it might be the root ball sending up a new stem, but my plant identifier app (Picture This) is identifying it as common buckthorn. Can you tell me from the photo if this is a crabapple or a buckthorn? Thanks.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for reaching out to ask2.extension.
My app also suggests buckthorn. I would suggest you get rid of it.
Even if it was you crab apple tree, you wouldn’t like the way it grows from a sucker.
Thank you Deb. I will destroy the plants.
Different topic. I am interested in becoming a Master Gardener volunteer. I have looked up the U of MN Master Gardener program and plan to enroll in 2025. Have you enjoyed the experience of being a Master Gardener volunteer.
Regards,
Paul Wisnewski
Yes! I learned a lot from the classes and I’ve also learned so much answering questions.
My only small disappointment is that I’m in Nobles County and was a member at large for the first couple of years. Finally we have a small group of MG but it would be fun to belong to a larger group. Hopefully in the future.
