We think of trees as having one trunk, known as a standard. In the forest, many trees are multi-trunked. It can be the nature of the tree (think birch), it can be the result of damage like lightening or even the nibbling of herbivores like deer to cause trees to develop many trunks. Humans train them to be a single trunk; a talented nursery pro can grow trees with beautiful, straight trunks.

Often it goes astray after being planted, mostly from neglect and lack of attention. Buds sprouting on the trunk or from the roots ruin the look of a standard tree. Side branches will develop and can negate the intention of a design. In boulevard trees, low branches become a hazard for drivers, unable to see traffic on side streets. In public spaces it lessens the security, as there is low foliage for people or animals to be hiding behind.

The quick fix for a tree, as pictured, is to prune off the sprouts. However, at the size they have already become a wound will be left, marring the straight trunk. The better solution is to nip them in the proverbial bud. Examine your trees in early Spring, maybe mid-Spring and rub the little buds off by hand. They will be obvious tiny, green nubs. A few moments for a lifetime of gorgeous specimen trees!

Happy Gardening!