Identifying and Removing Rootstock Suckers on Grafted Roses

Modern roses are budded onto vigorous rootstocks (often 'Dr. Huey', a red climber). When the grafted variety weakens or dies, the rootstock takes over, producing small red flowers and long, arching canes.

How to Identify Suckers

Dig to expose the bud union—the knobby swelling at the base where canes meet roots. Canes arising above the union are the desired rose; those from below are rootstock suckers.

Removal & Prevention

• Tear suckers off by hand or stomp them—this damages the bud eyes and prevents regrowth.
• Cutting stimulates more suckers (like pruning).
• Long roots (3–6 feet) are typical for 'Dr. Huey'; average rose roots reach 24" deep × 36" wide.

Regularly inspect the base and remove suckers promptly.