Sucker Stopper is made to be applied to the parent tree itself, on suckers, trunk sprouts, and the bark around pruning cuts, where it stops new shoots from forming at the treated spot. Keeping the parent tree safe comes down to following the label: listed trees only, the listed timing, and no more product than directed.

How does Sucker Stopper work on a tree?

Through a synthetic plant hormone. Sucker Stopper contains naphthaleneacetate, or NAA, a synthetic auxin that interrupts the signal triggering new shoot growth at the treated site. Like all auxins, NAA is toxic to plants at high concentrations, which is why label rates matter for the tree's health.

What could harm the parent tree during treatment?

Overuse. The product acts at the treated site rather than across the whole tree, and auxins like NAA harm plants at high concentrations, so treating only the sprouting spots at label rates keeps that risk low.

Where on the parent tree is Sucker Stopper applied?

Only where sprouts form. To keep new shoots from returning after pruning, several inches of bark around each cut are treated with Sucker Stopper, a ready to use spray that also targets trunk base suckers, root suckers, and sprouts along large limbs once they reach 6 to 12 inches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Sucker Punch harm the tree it treats?

Not when used as directed. The Sucker Punch RTU, applied with the brush in its cap or as a spray, is described as not harming trees and shrubs under its directions.

Is NAA harmful to people or pets?

It is considered only slightly toxic, though higher concentrations can be toxic to animals, and products containing it are registered with the EPA as pesticides.

Are suckers and water sprouts the same thing?

No. Suckers rise from the roots some distance from the trunk, while water sprouts grow from buds on the trunk or branches.

Does Sucker Stopper need to be mixed?

No. It comes ready to use in a spray bottle.