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By Anita Gall, Nebraska Extension Master Gardener
Is your tree pushing new growth at the base? These vigorous growing stems are called suckers. They can reduce flowering, fruiting and alter the form of the tree. Suckers form for many reasons. It can be an indication of stress, and damage to the base of the tree can promote growth. With hand pruners, pull the soil back to find the base of the sucker and clip it off while still less than 6″-12″. Regular pruning of the suckers throughout the growing season is the best way to keep them managed.Â