The tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an invasive plant species that can quickly take over yards and gardens. Originally from China, it was introduced to North America and Europe in the 1700s and has become a major pest. Getting rid of a tree of heaven requires persistence and using multiple control methods. Here are the most effective ways to remove tree of heaven from your property.
Identifying Tree of Heaven
Before removing tree of heaven, it’s important to correctly identify it. Tree of heaven has the following identifying features:
- Grows rapidly up to 80 feet tall
- Alternate, compound leaves with 10-41 leaflets
- Smooth gray bark with diamond-shaped lenticels
- Large clusters of small yellow-green flowers in spring
- Long seed pods that turn reddish-brown when ripe
- Strong unpleasant odor when leaves or twigs are crushed
Tree of heaven is often confused with other trees like sumac, walnut, or hickory. Examining the leaves and bark closely or crushing a leaf to smell it can help confirm identification.
Cutting Down Established Trees
For large, mature tree of heaven specimens, cutting down the tree is usually the first step. This removes the above-ground portion but does not kill the roots. To remove an established tree:
- Hire an arborist to cut down large trees, especially near buildings or power lines
- Cut the stump as low to the ground as possible
- Grind down or dig out as much of the stump and major roots as possible
- Chemically treat the stump and exposed roots with herbicide immediately after cutting
Cutting alone will cause the tree to vigorously resprout from the stump and roots. Grinding or digging helps remove some of the root system while herbicide treatment is necessary to kill the stump and prevent resprouts.
Herbicide Options for Stump Treatment
Two types of herbicide are effective for stump treatment of tree of heaven:
| Herbicide | Active Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Triclopyr | Triclopyr acid | Sold as brands like Garlon and Pathway. Effective on tree of heaven. |
| Glyphosate | Glyphosate salt | Sold as Roundup and other brands. May require repeat applications. |
Apply herbicide concentrate directly to the freshly cut stump immediately after cutting. Follow label directions for correct dilution and application method.
Treating Saplings and Seedlings
For small tree of heaven plants under 6 inches in diameter, digging up and removing the entire root system is an effective control method. To remove saplings and seedlings:
- Use a shovel, pickaxe, or Weed Wrench tool to pull or dig up the entire plant
- Shake off excess soil from the roots
- Leave plants in a pile to dry out and die
- Monitor the area for resprouts and remove any that emerge
Pulling seedlings when they are small is easier than cutting large trees. Dispose of the plants away from gardens to prevent re-rooting.
Chemical Treatment for Saplings
Small tree of heaven plants can also be controlled with herbicide applications to the leaves, bark, or cut stems:
| Application Method | Herbicide | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foliar spray | 2-4% Glyphosate or Triclopyr solution | Spray on leaves, avoid runoff to non-targets |
| Basal bark application | Triclopyr mixed with oil carrier | Apply to lower 12-18 inches of bark around stem |
| Cut stem application | Triclopyr or Glyphosate concentrate | Apply to freshly cut stump surface |
Herbicide kills the top growth and roots of small plants when applied correctly. Follow label guidelines on herbicide concentrations.
Repeated Treatment of Regrowth
Regardless of control method, tree of heaven regrowth is common after initial removal efforts. Monitor treated areas closely for new seedlings and resprouts. Repeated cutting, digging, or herbicide treatments will likely be needed on an ongoing basis.
- Re-apply herbicide to any resprouts from stumps or roots
- Hand pull, hoe, or spot spray small seedlings that emerge
- Plan on monitoring for 2-3 years until the root system is exhausted
- Prevent reintroduction by removing seed sources nearby
Persistence is key when managing tree of heaven. It may take multiple control efforts over several years to fully eradicate an infestation. Preventing seed production and importation helps deplete the seed bank.
Biological Control Options
In addition to mechanical and chemical control methods, biological control agents are also being used against tree of heaven in some areas. Potential biocontrol options include:
- Ailanthus Webworm Moth – Caterpillars defoliate trees and weaken them over time. Several states have released this moth.
- Verticillium Wilt – Fungal disease that infects tree vascular system. Causes wilt and dieback.
- Ailanthus Leafminer – Moth larvae feed inside leaves, causing damage. Approved for US release.
Biological controls like insects or diseases weaken and kill trees slowly over time without chemicals. They are often used together with mechanical methods.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Biological Control
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
|
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The slow speed of biocontrols means they should be combined with physical removal. Natural enemies may help maintain suppression long-term.
Preventing Reinfestation
To avoid having to continually remove the same tree of heaven plants, it’s also important to take steps to prevent new seeds and sprouts from infesting cleared areas. Recommendations include:
- Remove nearby seed sources like mature trees
- Monitor for and remove seedlings promptly when small
- Use plastic or fabric mulch to prevent germination
- Plant dense native vegetation to outcompete seedlings
- Do not transport or dispose of seeds or plants where they can spread
Reducing the amount of seeds in the area with good sanitation practices will help make follow-up removal efforts more successful.
Hiring a Professional
Removing large, established tree of heaven infestations often requires special equipment and expertise. Professional arborists or invasive plant management contractors can help with:
- Safely cutting down tall trees near infrastructure
- Grinding large stumps and roots
- Applying herbicide correctly and legally
- Providing monitoring and follow-up treatments
- Chipping, hauling, and disposing of plant waste
While hiring pros costs more upfront, it often saves time and prevents accidents when wrestling with big trees. Check for licenses, insurance, and references when selecting a tree service.
Costs of Professional Tree of Heaven Removal
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Tree cutting (per tree) | $200 – $1,500 |
| Stump grinding (per stump) | $3 – $15 per inch diameter |
| Root removal (per hour) | $150 – $400 |
| Herbicide application | $75 – $200 per hour |
Get quotes from at least 3 professionals before choosing one. Be sure to verify if hauling debris, follow-up treatments, permits, and other costs are included.
Community Removal Efforts
Since tree of heaven easily spreads between neighboring properties, community-wide efforts are often needed for effective control. Neighbors can coordinate removal by:
- Organizing volunteer work days for digging out seedlings
- Applying jointly for grant funding to hire contractors
- Allowing professionals access to infested properties
- Agreeing not to transport or propagate the trees
- Monitoring public areas like parks and roadways
Preventing reintroduction from surrounding areas will help make individual removal efforts more successful. Homeowner associations and community groups play an important role.
Grants and Programs for Removal
Some funding sources exist to aid communities battling invasive tree of heaven:
- USDA Forest Service – Offers grants for state and local agencies
- Keep America Beautiful – Provides small grants for tree removal projects
- Arbor Day Foundation – Free trees given to community groups removing invasives
- Nonprofit groups – May sponsor removal work days or offer assistance
Look for grant opportunities and partner organizations to reduce costs. Multi-year projects often have the highest success fighting established infestations.
Proper Disposal of Plant Waste
Proper disposal of tree of heaven plant material is vital to avoid further spread. Recommendations include:
- Burning – Where allowed. Dry thoroughly first.
- Chipping – Use very small chip size, monitor compost piles for sprouting.
- Landfill – Seal in bags or containers, do not compost.
- Solarization – Seal under plastic to heat treat plant waste.
Never dump waste in natural areas or leave it uncontained. Monitor disposal sites for seedlings. Creative uses like biofuel may utilize invasive plant waste in the future.
Replanting With Native Species
After removing tree of heaven, the disturbed area will be prime habitat for new infestation if left unplanted. Replanting with native species can help prevent this. Ideas include:
- Fast-growing native trees like birch, poplar, and willow
- Thick native undergrowth like elderberry and serviceberry
- Meadow or prairie seed mixes
- Cover crops like ryegrass until longer-term plants establish
Select plants suited to the light and soil conditions of the site. Maintain and water as needed until they become established. An ecological restoration specialist can provide advice.
Conclusion
While removing tree of heaven takes determination and repeated effort, it can be accomplished through persistence. Cutting trees, treating stumps, eliminating seed sources, monitoring for years, and properly disposing of waste are all key parts of the process. Involving the community and utilizing professionals when needed will improve control. With diligence and good prevention habits, you can reclaim your yard from this invasive tree.