Q.apple tree suckers
my very old apple tree was removed and stump ground 5 years ago. there are hundreds of little suckers coming up in original spot and as far away as 10 feet. I pull and pull and that does not slow them down. Chemicals are not permitted here in Victoria, Canada. It is driving me crazy and digging them out is ruining the lawn.
Would love to hear your suggestions. thanks, Peggy
Hmm, this sounds like a very annoying tree! To deal with the father away suckers, perhaps you could try thrusting an edging shovel as deep as possible into the ground in a ring around the original site, to cut off most of their root connections. For those sprouting from the original spot, you may have to choose an option that will kill the grass as well. You could put down a heavy tarp, then pile mulch over it, and leave it until the suckers die out. Or place a large opaque box over the tarp to shut out light. Both of these may not be the most attractive at first, but should be effective.
