Tree expert? How do I stop the shoots that grow up from the base of my apple tree?
Question:I cut them and they keep growing. I also have a Jap Maple that got whacked by my ex about 3 yrs ago. now it has about 5 or 6 shoots coming up from the base. How do I prune that without killing it?
Answers:
Clip them close to the trunk, try to make cuts as neat as possible. You can even use a pocket knife to round off any stub, but NEVER use any sealant on the cut. The latest findings show you are more likely to seal disease in than keep it out. Sealants also retard the the growth of scar tissue and slow healing. Robin has the right idea for your maple but don't use sealants! RScott
These are called suckers. And that is what they do, suck the food from the main trunk. You have to ckip and then seal the sore. Ask your local garden center for a good sealant, usually tar based.
Prune the shoots close to the base and seal them with a product such as Lac Balsam, be vigilant, and eventually you can gain control however this can take a while. Sealing is important to prevent borers and other insects and also disease. On your japanese maple, prune no more than one third from the base up and remember that the beauty of these trees is the graceful arching form so try to leave growth other than what is growing toward the ground. Don't top the tips.
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