Question
I have been pruning and shaping a beautiful lilac tree for many years now. It is loaded with beautiful blooms every year. The problem I have is all the volunteers that spring up from the roots. They are very difficult to remove and make weeding a nightmare. Clipping them at ground level cleans the area, but is only a temporary measure.

Is there a way to prevent them from emerging every year?

Thanks!

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Essie,
Thanx for your question.  A short answer?  Lawnmower.  I'm sorry.  That's a real toughy having to deal with suckers but lilacs and aspens are famous for that.  If you try to poison the suckers, you can endanger the mother plant.  We always mowed around the lilacs to help keep the suckers down.  I hope this helps.
Tom