Managing Invasive Roots and Suckers on Purple Plum Trees

Understanding Root Suckers

A three-year-old purple plum tree is sending up feeder sprouts from roots 3–4 feet from the trunk. The homeowner has been removing them but worries about damaging the parent root, which has grown to 1–2 inches in diameter and is lifting nearby bricks.

Safe Root Pruning

You can cut the problematic root without harming the tree. The root will regenerate, so plan to inspect the area every few years and repeat the process if bricks shift again. The suckers themselves can be removed at any time without risk to the tree's health.

Best Practices

• Use clean, sharp tools to make a clean cut on the root.
• Remove suckers by cutting them at ground level; avoid herbicides, which can translocate to the main tree.
• Consider installing a root barrier if the tree is near hardscapes to limit future encroachment.