Cherry and plum tree shoots often become a real headache for gardeners.
These persistent shoots not only spoil the appearance of the site, but also take away nutrients from the main trees.
There are several effective ways to get rid of unwanted growth and restore your garden to a well-groomed appearance.
Reasons for the appearance of undergrowth
The emergence of shoots is a natural process of reproduction of fruit trees. The root system of cherry and plum trees has the ability to produce numerous shoots.
This mechanism allows plants to recover from damage.
However, in gardening this property often creates problems, especially if the trees are grafted onto a vigorous rootstock.
Mechanical removal methods
The easiest way to combat shoots is to regularly dig up young shoots. It is important to remove shoots along with the root, otherwise they will quickly grow back.
To do this, use a sharp shovel or a special tool - a root remover. The procedure is carried out in the spring or autumn, when the soil is sufficiently moist and soft.
Chemical means of control
In case of strong growth of shoots, you can resort to chemical methods.
Herbicides of continuous action effectively destroy unwanted shoots. The preparations are applied to the leaves of the shoots with a brush or a sprayer.
It is important to take precautions and not allow chemicals to come into contact with crops.
Agrotechnical methods
Proper agricultural technology helps prevent the appearance of shoots. Regular pruning of trees, removal of dry and damaged branches reduces the risk of shoots.
Mulching the tree trunks with a thick layer of organic material also prevents the growth of shoots.
Use of covering materials
An effective way to combat undergrowth is to cover the soil around the tree trunk with a dense material.
Black film, non-woven material or roofing felt are suitable for this. The cover deprives the shoots of light and prevents their growth. The method is especially effective in combination with mulching.
Grafting onto a dwarf rootstock
A radical but effective way to solve the problem is to replace trees with varieties grafted onto a dwarf rootstock.
These plants produce minimal or no shoots. This method takes time and effort, but provides long-term results.
