Question
The roots on my 26 year old Bradford Pear trees are above the ground in places. They have been nicked from time to time from mowing then the nicks start to grow branches. If I cut them they grow back. Can I keep these branches from growing back?
          Thank you, Charles

Answer
You can spray them with a growth retardant and this will stop the growth. One of these is called Sucker stopper. I would spray the new sprouts and then wait about a week and cut them off and cover the exposed roots with not more than 2 inches deep of sand. This will keep the areas from getting light and stop further sprouting and at the same time protect the roots form the mowers etc. hitting the roots. Here is a web link to this product check with your local garden type store for this. http://www.montereylawngarden.com/faqs/suckerstopper/