Sucker growth from root system

[jjw4413]

If I remove a tree and grind the stump below grade level will the root system continue to sprout sucker growth? I have heard conflicting information about this condition and was wondering if the roots will eventually die off since the tree itself has been removed.

 

[D&B Mack]

A few species I know of may, I have seen it happen. If you only grind down to surface or just right below grade. If you grind down far enough to get the meet of the stump out, then highly unlikely.

 

[ch woodchuck]

Second the motion.usually (when possible)Go for 18''below ground level.Never had one come back......yet...

 

[ATH]

It does depend on the species of tree.

If you are working with a tree know to be a strong sprouter, treat the stump with herbicide (Tordon, Garlon, Crossbow, etc...) a week to 10 days before grinding. The treament should be applied less than 30 minutes after making the final cut. Realizing this is not always possible when you are removing and grinding all in one day...on those days you could try to treat the ends of the roots where you quit grinding.

 

[imagineero]

liquidambars among others are notable for suckering all over a yard after removal of they havent been heavily poisoned before grinding. On these and other similar species my policy is to remove the tree and poison with any brand of weed killer with a glyphosphate content of greater than 250/l. I apply neat immediately after cutting, and come back a week later and re-poison. I leave the stump for 2 to 3 weeks after that, then grind to whatever level the HO wants. Have never had suckering with this approach.

The key to it is poisoning as soon as possible after the cut and using a high glyphosphate poison (I often use 360 neat). Autumn when leaves are starting to fall is a great time to remove and poison because sap is falling and it will suck the chemical down into the root system. Winter is pleasant for removals because no foliage, but less chance of chemical sucking down and more chance of suckering in the following spring. Summer is a safe bet.

Shaun