Maple tree with mature upright root sucker.
Photo Credit: J.M., Crown Point, Indiana
Q) I have a maple tree (it is either an ‘October Glory’ or ‘Autumn Blaze’) that has what I assume to be a rather large sucker at the bottom. The diameter of the sucker is about 2″ and the tree trunk itself is 7″ in diameter. I have attached pictures of it from different angles. I would like to know if it is ok to remove it? I’ve read quite a bit about these and that late winter/early spring is a good time to remove them. – J.M., Crown Point, IN
A) Some landscape plants produce vigorous, upright stems that become troublesome as they out compete better-formed branches and shade out the rest of the plant. These remarkably fast-growing, upright stems are called “suckers” if they come from the root system.
Remove top of sucker before making final cut at the base.
Photo Credit: J.M., Crown Point, Indiana
You are correct that late winter/early spring before the new growth begins is the best time to try and get that removed. You’ll want to be careful to avoid injuring the main trunk when you cut. First remove the top of the root sucker (can be done in stages) to get the heavy weight off that stem. Then make closer cuts further down to just above where you see the “v”. We also recommend that you pull the rock mulch away from the base of the tree and if needed, remove any soil that is covering the root collar (the flare of the trunk at the bottom.) You can see an illustration of these recommendations on the annotated photo, courtesy of Purdue Urban Forestry Specialist Lindsey Purcell. Additional information on pruning can be found in Purdue Extension Bulletin HO-4-W, Pruning Ornamental Trees and Shrubs
