Why Do Trees Grow Suckers—And How Can You Prevent Them?

If you’ve ever noticed random shoots sprouting up from the base of your tree—or even from the roots in your lawn—you’re not alone. These fast-growing shoots are called suckers, and while they may look like new growth, they’re actually a sign that your tree might be stressed.

What Causes Tree Suckers?

Trees send out suckers as a survival response to stress. This stress can come from:

• Injury (like damage from lawnmowers or weed trimmers)

• Drought or poor watering habits

• Over-pruning or improper pruning

• Root damage

• Pest or disease pressure

• Nutrient imbalances

Some tree species are naturally more prone to suckering—like aspens, crabapples, and some ornamentals—especially if they’ve been grafted (which is very common in fruit trees).

How to Prevent Suckers with Proper Maintenance

While you can’t always stop suckers completely, you can reduce them significantly by keeping your trees and lawn healthy:

1. Mulch Smart

Apply mulch around the base of your tree to protect the roots and retain moisture. Just be sure not to pile it against the trunk—leave a few inches of space.

2. Avoid Mechanical Damage

Protect your tree’s bark from lawn equipment. A single bump with a mower or string trimmer can injure the tree and spark sucker growth.

3. Water Wisely

Deep, consistent watering helps trees stay strong—especially during dry spells. Healthy trees are less likely to send out stress suckers.

4. Don’t Over-Fertilize

Too much nitrogen—especially from lawn fertilizer—can trigger excessive sucker growth. Use slow-release or tree-specific fertilizers when needed.

5. Prune Properly

Avoid harsh pruning and never remove more than 25% of a tree’s canopy at once. Make clean cuts at the right time of year, and remove suckers early before they sap energy.

Need Help Keeping Your Trees in Check?

At One Call Property Solutions, we’re here to help your trees stay healthy, strong, and sucker-free. Whether you need expert pruning, seasonal maintenance, or just some solid advice—we’ve got your back.

Call us at 208-490-6713 or visit www.onecallps.com to schedule a visit!