Is there any trick to stop new branches from sprouting from previously cut branches on my walnut trees?

Question

We have several walnut trees on our property and I can't keep up with keeping them trimed because as soon as I think I got the job done theres twice as many new sprouts as I had before coming from the branches I just got done triming off! Help!

Answer 1

I am not an expert, but I think there is some type of tar that you put where you cut the branches off so the tree heals faster and that it should not grow back.

Answer 2

Most pruning is done to encourage lateral branching. Although you are using it to keep the trees small you will not be able to stop them from trying to survive – which is what they are doing.

You will have to continue to cut branches as they grow but there is no way you will be able to stop them from sending out new shoots – aside from cutting down the tree or leaving it where it is and killing it.

Answer 3

There are a couple of different types of chemicals on the market that can be used to inhibit the sprouting.  You can easily find them at your local gardening center; however, they are very harsh chemicals.  If you want a safer method, just keep trimming.

The reason why a removed branch doesn't have sprouts coming out is based on two things:  1). there is still a plant there for sugar production in the leaves and reproduction, and 2). the bark around the removed branch is older, secondary tissue rather than meristem (from which new growth comes).  When a tree sends up sprouts/suckers from the roots, it is a way for survival.  This is often seen on a super hyper scale in oak trees.