Posted on June 14, 2006 at 18:30:25:

Question?
I have some very prolific lilac trees that continue to put runners out and want to spread everywhere.
What can I do to control the spread of runners without killing the entire tree?
Thanks!!

Answer:
If it is an area that is constantly mowed that will control them. Unfortunately that is about all that can be done except digging them out as you see them. There is a product for fruit trees that helps prevent suckers but I am not sure if that would help in this case as these are coming from the root.