Managing Sucker Growth on Ornamental Cherry Trees

Ornamental cherry produces constant suckers. Homeowner cuts and paints with Sucker Stopper. Wants less work.

Causes of Suckering

• Planted too deep.
• Excessive pruning.
• Physical damage (mower, string trimmer).

Chemical Control

Sucker Stopper RTU (Monterey) – listed for some trees, not cherry. Expensive, seasonal, only stops at application point.

Physical Barrier (Best Shot)

1. Heavy woven landscape fabric (not plastic) under canopy.
2. Cover with 4 in gravel (not soil/mulch).
3. Suckers that emerge are easy to cut; fabric blocks most.

Reality Check

Cherry suckering is genetic. If it's a nightmare, consider removal and replacement with a non-suckering tree.