Β Q: I have a desert oak tree on the landscaped embankment in my back yard in Oro Valley. The tree is nearly 20 years old and for several years now it has produced a progressively larger amount of suckers (or maybe they are upward protruding roots that grow leaves). They cover a large area under the tree and are starting to lift up the adjacent flagstone stairs and are spreading into other landscaping. I try pulling them up only for them to continue to grow back. I have tried using the product βSucker Stopperβ that I purchase at a local nursery. It seems to only temporarily retard the growth and that product is quite expensive ($50) for a small spray bottle). I have also tried using a flame torch but that also is only a temporary solution. I have attached some pictures of the sucker growth. Do you have any advice on how I can stop the growth of these suckers?
A:Β This is an unfortunate feature of some live oaks (Quercus species). There is no way to stop the sucker growth completely since they are part of the tree and they will continue to grow back. You could mow them down to a manageable size periodically but you probably donβt want to spray them with something that might harm the tree. Or do you? The glass half full perspective is they make a nice ground cover but you might not want a tiny forest under your tree so cutting and digging them out is whatβs left.
Peter L. Warren is the Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Questions, photos and videos may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
