What Is A Sucker On A Rose Bush

A sucker on a rose bush is a shoot that emerges from the rootstock below the graft union of a rose plant. These shoots are typically undesirable because they divert energy from the desired rose variety and often possess different characteristics, such as aggressive growth and different flower types. Recognizing and removing suckers is essential for maintaining the health and vigor of your prized rose bushes. This comprehensive guide will delve into what suckers are, why they form, how to identify them, and the best methods for their removal, ensuring your roses thrive.

Understanding Rose Bush Grafting

Before diving into the details of suckers, it's crucial to understand the basics of rose grafting. Most modern roses are not grown on their own roots because many desirable rose varieties are weak-rooted or susceptible to diseases. To overcome this, rose breeders graft the scion (the desired rose variety) onto a rootstock.

Scion: The upper part of the rose that produces the beautiful flowers and foliage you want.
Rootstock: The root system and lower stem that provides the plant with vigor, disease resistance, and adaptability to different soil conditions.

The graft union is the point where the scion and rootstock are joined together. It's usually visible as a swollen area near the base of the plant. Common rootstocks include Rosa multiflora and Dr. Huey, known for their hardiness.

What Exactly Is a Sucker?

A sucker is a shoot that originates from the rootstock, below the graft union. Because the rootstock is a different rose variety than the one you purchased, the suckers will not produce the same beautiful blooms. Instead, they will draw nutrients and energy away from the desired rose, weakening it over time. In essence, suckers are like freeloaders, stealing resources that should be going to the main rose bush.

Why Do Suckers Form on Rose Bushes?

Several factors can contribute to the formation of suckers:

Stress: When a rose bush is stressed due to poor soil conditions, drought, disease, or improper pruning, the rootstock may produce suckers as a survival mechanism.
Damage to the Graft Union: If the graft union is damaged, the rose bush may try to compensate by sending out new shoots from the rootstock.
Age: Older rose bushes are more prone to producing suckers as their root systems become more established and vigorous.
Improper Planting: Planting the graft union too deep below the soil line can encourage sucker formation.

Identifying Suckers: Key Characteristics

Distinguishing suckers from the desired canes can be tricky, especially for novice gardeners. Here are several key characteristics to look for:

Origin Point: Suckers emerge from below the graft union, often from the base of the plant or even from the ground several inches away. Trace the stem back to its origin to confirm if it’s coming from the rootstock.
Leaf Appearance: Sucker leaves often look different from the leaves of the grafted rose. Rosa multiflora rootstock typically has leaves with seven leaflets, while Dr. Huey usually has five. Compare the leaves of the suspected sucker to the established canes of your rose variety.
Cane Color and Texture: Suckers often have different cane colors and textures than the desired rose. They may be lighter or darker green, redder, or have a different thorn density.
Growth Habit: Suckers tend to grow very vigorously and often have a wild, unruly appearance compared to the more controlled growth of the grafted rose.
Flower Differences: If left to grow, suckers will eventually produce flowers, but they will likely be different in color, size, and form from the flowers of your desired rose variety. They often produce small, single, or semi-double blooms.

Visual Aid: Imagine your rose bush as a tree. The trunk is the main stem of the desired rose variety, and the branches are the canes that produce the beautiful flowers. A sucker is like a rogue sprout coming from the base of the tree, near the roots, and it looks distinctly different from the rest of the tree.

The Dangers of Ignoring Suckers

Ignoring suckers can have several negative consequences for your rose bush:

Reduced Vigor: Suckers compete with the desired rose for water, nutrients, and sunlight, leading to reduced vigor and fewer blooms.
Weakened Plant: As suckers steal resources, the main rose bush becomes weakened and more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Loss of Desired Characteristics: Over time, if suckers are not removed, they can overtake the entire plant, causing it to revert to the characteristics of the rootstock. This means you'll lose the beautiful flowers and desirable traits you originally purchased.
Unsightly Appearance: A rose bush overrun with suckers will look unkempt and unattractive.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Suckers

The most effective way to deal with suckers is to remove them promptly and correctly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Identify the Sucker: Carefully examine your rose bush and identify any shoots that originate from below the graft union. Use the characteristics mentioned earlier to confirm that they are indeed suckers.
Excavate the Area: Use a small trowel or hand fork to gently excavate the soil around the base of the sucker. This will expose the point where the sucker emerges from the rootstock.
Cut Cleanly: Use sharp, clean pruning shears or a utility knife to cut the sucker cleanly at its point of origin. It's crucial to remove the sucker as close to the rootstock as possible. Avoid simply snapping it off at the soil line, as this will encourage it to regrow.
Remove the Sucker: Carefully pull the severed sucker away from the rose bush.
Inspect for Remaining Tissue: Examine the area where you removed the sucker to ensure that no tissue remains. If you see any small buds or growth points, carefully scrape them away with your knife.
Replace the Soil: Gently backfill the excavated area with soil and lightly tamp it down.
Monitor for Regrowth: Keep a close eye on the area for any signs of new sucker growth. If you see any, repeat the removal process.

Important Tips for Sucker Removal:

Use Sharp Tools: Sharp pruning shears or a utility knife will make clean cuts and minimize damage to the rootstock.
Sanitize Your Tools: Dip your tools in a solution of diluted bleach or rubbing alcohol before and after each use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Remove Suckers at the Source: Cutting suckers off at the soil line is not effective. They will simply regrow. You must remove them at their point of origin on the rootstock.
Be Persistent: Sucker removal is an ongoing process. You may need to remove suckers several times a year, especially during periods of active growth.

Preventing Sucker Formation

While you can't completely eliminate the possibility of suckers forming, there are several steps you can take to minimize their occurrence:

Proper Planting Depth: Ensure that the graft union is planted at the correct depth. In colder climates, the graft union should be planted slightly below the soil line to protect it from freezing temperatures. In warmer climates, it can be planted at or slightly above the soil line.
Maintain Healthy Soil: Healthy soil promotes strong root growth and reduces stress on the rose bush. Amend your soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its drainage and fertility.
Water Properly: Water your rose bushes deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and stress.
Fertilize Regularly: Feed your rose bushes with a balanced rose fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Proper fertilization provides the nutrients needed for strong growth and bloom production.
Prune Correctly: Prune your rose bushes regularly to remove dead, diseased, or crossing canes. Proper pruning encourages healthy growth and reduces stress on the plant.
Protect the Graft Union: Avoid damaging the graft union during planting, pruning, or other garden activities.
Choose the Right Rootstock: When purchasing roses, inquire about the rootstock used. Some rootstocks are more prone to suckering than others.

Dealing with Persistent Suckers

In some cases, suckers can be incredibly persistent and difficult to eradicate. If you're struggling to control suckers, here are some additional strategies you can try:

Herbicide Application: As a last resort, you can apply a systemic herbicide to the suckers. However, be extremely careful when using herbicides around roses, as they can damage or kill the plant. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and avoid contact with the desired rose canes. Apply the herbicide directly to the freshly cut sucker stump for best results.
Root Pruning: If suckers are emerging from a specific area of the root system, you can try root pruning. Carefully excavate around the affected area and sever the roots that are producing suckers. This can help to redirect the plant's energy to the desired canes.
Repotting (for Container Roses): If your rose bush is in a container and is heavily infested with suckers, consider repotting it. Carefully remove the rose bush from the container and inspect the root ball. Remove as much of the old soil as possible and carefully prune away any suckers that are emerging from the roots. Repot the rose bush in fresh potting mix.
Professional Help: If you're unable to control suckers on your own, consider consulting with a professional arborist or rose expert. They can provide personalized advice and assistance.

Suckers vs. Basal Breaks: Knowing the Difference

It's important to differentiate between suckers and basal breaks. Basal breaks are new shoots that emerge from the base of the scion (the desired rose variety), above the graft union. Basal breaks are desirable because they contribute to the overall vigor and health of the rose bush and will produce the desired flowers.

Key Differences:

Origin: Suckers originate from the rootstock below the graft union, while basal breaks originate from the scion above the graft union.
Desirability: Suckers are undesirable and should be removed, while basal breaks are desirable and should be encouraged.
Characteristics: Suckers often have different leaf shapes, cane colors, and growth habits than the desired rose variety, while basal breaks will have the same characteristics as the desired rose variety.

When examining new growth at the base of your rose bush, carefully trace its origin to determine whether it's a sucker or a basal break. If it's coming from below the graft union, it's a sucker and should be removed. If it's coming from above the graft union, it's a basal break and should be allowed to grow.

Conclusion: Maintaining Rose Health Through Sucker Control

Dealing with suckers on rose bushes is an essential aspect of rose care. By understanding what suckers are, how to identify them, and the best methods for their removal, you can protect the health and beauty of your prized roses. Regular inspection, prompt removal, and preventative measures will help ensure that your roses thrive and produce an abundance of stunning blooms for years to come. Remember to always remove suckers at their origin point, maintain healthy soil conditions, and provide proper care to minimize their formation. With a little diligence and attention, you can keep your rose bushes sucker-free and enjoy their captivating beauty to the fullest.