What are tree suckers?
The pacifiers They are shoots or suckers that grow near the trunk of a tree or shrub. They usually develop from the main buds and can also emerge from the base of the trunk or even directly from the roots. These shoots have characteristics that differentiate them from normal branches, as they grow more quickly and compete with the main branches for vital resources such as water, nutrients and sunlight.
Because of this competition, suckers can harm the healthy growth of the tree, as they steal energy necessary for proper development. Therefore, its elimination is crucial to maintaining the plant's overall well-being and improving the appearance of fruit trees.
Importance of eliminating suckers
Removing suckers is essential for several reasons:
- Reduction of competition: Removing suckers ensures that nutrients and sap are directed to the most productive branches, improving the health of the tree.
- Disease prevention: A tree that lacks suckers is more likely to remain free of pests and diseases, as these shoots can attract harmful insects and fungi.
- Improving the aesthetics of the tree: By keeping a tree free of suckers, a more balanced and attractive shape is achieved, similar to what is sought in the apple tree pruning.
- Increased production: For fruit trees, removing suckers results in greater quantity and quality of fruit.
When should suckers be removed?
The best time to remove suckers It depends on the tree species and the climatic conditions of the region. However, it is generally recommended to remove the suckers in spring or early summer, when they are easier to identify and still small. If high temperatures are expected, it is suggested to prune before the tree suffers water stress, also taking into account the
behavior of trees this season.
How to remove suckers
There are several methods for removing hickeys, which can vary in effectiveness and effort required:
- Manual pruning: This method involves removing the suckers by hand, using tools such as pruning shears or knives. It is recommended to do this when the suckers are small, to avoid hurt the treeThis method is the most respectful to the tree, but it can be laborious and requires knowledge, such as that applied in the olive tree cultivation.
- Use of brush cutters: Brushcutters are mechanical tools that allow you to remove suckers more quickly. However, their use requires caution, since if used improperly, they can damage the tree bark and increase the risk of infections and pests.
There are also chemical methods that allow suckers to be eliminated by applying herbicides. However, these methods should be used with caution, as they can have a negative impact on the environment and the health of the tree, affecting its productivity and the quality of the fruits that can be obtained in the future.
Maintenance after sucker removal
After removing the suckers, it's important to maintain the tree properly to ensure its recovery and healthy growth. Some recommendations include:
- Proper watering: Make sure the tree gets enough water, especially during hot weather.
- Fertilization: Apply appropriate fertilizer to provide the nutrients needed for optimal growth, just as is done in the pomegranate care.
- Monitoring: Regularly check the condition of the tree to quickly detect the appearance of new suckers or any signs of disease.
Additional tips for pruning suckers
It is useful to keep in mind some additional tips when pruning suckers:
- Clean tools: Make sure your pruning tools are clean and disinfected to avoid spreading disease between trees.
- Choose the right moment: Pruning should be done on a dry, sunny day, which promotes rapid recovery of the tree.
- Space between branches: Maintain adequate space between branches to ensure good air and light circulation.
Pruning suckers is not just an aesthetic issue, but a fundamental part of tree care, benefiting both their health and production. When done correctly, removing suckers will help ensure vibrant, healthy growth and maximize fruit production in fruit trees.
