What are watersprouts

Watersprouts are fast growing branches that are long and skinny. Watersprouts most commonly grow where branches have been cut or where a branch has snapped off. Watersprouts are very common on fruit trees such as apple trees or pear trees. Watersprouts often grow in clusters.

What causes watersprouts

Watersprouts are most commonly caused by pruning, damage or stress. When a branch is cut back the tree will respond by growing lots of watersprouts. Or when a tree is unhealthy or reaching old age it will sometimes grow watersprouts. Some tree species are much more prone to growing watersprouts than others. Conifer trees such as cedar and fir almost never grow watersprouts whereas deciduous trees such as plum and birch commonly grow watersprouts.

Are watersprouts bad?

Watersprouts are not harmful themselves but they are a sign that the tree has been damaged, pruned excessively, or unhealthy. Watersprouts grow very quickly and can take energy away from the rest of the tree so it is best to remove them.

How to prevent watersprouts

Watersprouts can be prevented by keeping your tree healthy, avoiding damage and by pruning the tree properly.

How to remove watersprouts

When removing watersprouts, cut them off as close to the base as possible without damaging the trunk. This will prevent regrowth. You can use sharp pruners or loppers to do this.