How and When to Stake a Storm Damaged Tree

[@happytime1012]

Hi. N. Illinois here. Can you help me with a tree question? I transplanted some wild growing soft maples about 5 years back. The trees look healthy but have a ring of many 1 to 2 inch shoots circling the main trunk. The main tree is approximately 15 ft tall. What is a safe method for the tree to remove those shoots. Please help. Thanks!!

[@gardenwiseadventures]

@happytime1012 When you say shoots, are you talking about water sprouts or branches growing up from the base of the tree? If so, you can cut them off as low as you can get and then apply Sucker Punch to help reduce the growth later. Bonide Sucker Punch, 16 oz Ready-to-Use Spray, Control Unwanted Plant Sprouts, Plant Growth Regulator for Home Garden a.co/d/0esVluqg I do worry that there may be something wrong with the root area of your tree, as Maples generally don't produce sucker's unless they are stressed. Could there be circling roots that are circling the tree? Was it planted too deep? Was the wire basket or ropes left on the tree when it was planted? Investigate those things and see if you can find the cause. Hopefully, it's something that can be corrected.

[@happytime1012]

@@gardenwiseadventures Thanks for the reply. I really don’t know the correct terminology for whats going on here. Is there a way I could send you a picture of my situation? I would really appreciate it

[@gardenwiseadventures]

@happytime1012 I wish KZbin allowed pictures in the comments! Unfortunately, I don't have a way at this time to receive pictures for my channel at this time. An arborist or nursery in your area should be able to help, though!