Root Stock

[Davyburns]

Although this is happening on some citrus trees I have, its more of a general question.

If the rootstock below the graft starts to sprout, should I leave it or cut it off?

[FB.]

Don't let the rootstock grow.

The rootstock is an entirely different plant that has been selected for its rooting performance and not for the fruit that it produces - sometimes a rootstock is not even of the same species (e.g. quince rootstocks for pears, plum rootstocks for almonds).

[Davyburns]

Don't let the rootstock grow.

The rootstock is an entirely different plant that has been selected for its rooting performance and not for the fruit that it produces - sometimes a rootstock is not even of the same species (e.g. quince rootstocks for pears, plum rootstocks for almonds).

That was my first reaction, then I thought "what if it actually helps the roots to grow" then I thought "well surely the grafted bit would do that"
So I couldnt make up my mind

[FB.]

The extra leaves of rootstock shoots would add to the sunlight-gathering ability.

With my own trees, if the rootstock growth is coming from the above-ground portion of a young tree, then I let it grow until the end of the season to gather extra sunlight and build strength, and then remove it during winter pruning so that the energy gets redirected towards the top of the tree next season.

If the rootstock is sprouting from below ground it needs those shoots removing as soon as possible - you need to dig down to find where it originates and get as much as possible, otherwise, if you simply cut it off at ground level, it will come back next year with twice as many shoots and twice as much strength as before.