Question
Hi, We are from southern Iowa and have a crab tree that is sending out what I term "root runners" that create new tree sprouts all around the tree.  We keep cutting them back, but they are so prolific that we now have an ugly mess of new above ground roots that are determined to grow more crab trees.  Is there a way we can rid the tree of these ugly roots and the sprouts they start?  Thank you.

Answer
Unfortunately, controlling root sprouts will be an ongoing, but ultimately futile task. Grubbing them is a short-term solution, but the sprouts will come back. Most people simply mow them regularly to keep them under control. In beds, mowing may not be an option and grubbing may be your only choice. Herbicides that will kill the root sprouts will greatly harm and likely kill the "mother" tree as well.

There are some growth hormones that will stop or slow the growth of these sprouts. One of these is called Sucker-Stopper a ready to use product. You might check with your local nursery/ garden type store for this product. Here is a link to information on Sucker- Stopper.

http://www.montereylawngarden.com/pdf/sucker_stopper_rtu02.pdf