Plant suckers are vigorous vertical growth originating from the root system or lower main stem of a plant.
When you learn to recognize plant suckers, youre ready to manage them.
If the roots have been damaged, you might see suckers grow from the base of the trunk.
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However, some plants are less likely to develop plant suckers than others.
Similarly, several broadleaf evergreens, such asrhododendronsor strawberry shrub, andHydrangea paniculata, sucker less than other plants.
Oak trees can develop plant suckers but not as frequently as other trees.
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It wants to spread.
In some cases, you might see a named variety of a shrub that is reported to spread less.
Plant suckering can be a desirable thing.
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Stress awakens the sucker response in almost all of them.
The earlier you do this, the easier it is.
However, once a sucker is established for a few weeks, it’s impossible to remove by hand.
It’s just too big and tough or too thorny, such as onhoney locust.
In theory,tomato plant suckerssound like a good thing.
More stems could potentially mean more fruits.
Just know, if you let the plant suckers continue to grow, your tomatoes will be smaller.
Additionally, too much tomato foliage reduces airflow.
Pruning away suckers keeps air circulating and helps leaves dry quicker, reducing an overly-moist environment.
To remove tomato plant suckers, snap them off when they are two to four inches long.
Use a pruner to remove any stems thicker than a pencil.
Sterilize your pruners before and after use.
The Spruce / Michele Lee
