The Tree of Heaven, or Ailanthus altissima, is an aggressive invasive species taking over Ohio’s landscapes. This fast-growing tree damages native ecosystems, infrastructure, and can even cause allergic reactions.
Tackling this unwelcome guest requires persistence and the right approach, but with proper methods, you can reclaim your Ohio property from this stubborn invader.
1. Hack And Squirt Method
Grab a hatchet and herbicide for this effective technique. Make downward cuts around the trunk, leaving the bark partially attached, then immediately apply herbicide into these fresh wounds.
The tree’s own circulation system will transport the chemical throughout, killing it from within. Best done in late summer or early fall when the tree is moving nutrients to its roots for winter storage.
2. Cut Stump Treatment
Fresh-cut stumps provide the perfect opportunity to stop regrowth. After cutting the tree as close to the ground as possible, immediately paint the stump with undiluted herbicide containing triclopyr or glyphosate.
Work quickly – you’ve got about 15 minutes before the cut surface seals itself off! This technique works year-round in Ohio but gives best results during fall when the tree is actively moving resources downward.
3. Basal Bark Application
Mix triclopyr ester herbicide with oil and spray it around the tree’s base. The solution penetrates the bark, traveling to the roots and killing the entire tree without cutting it down first.
Target trees with trunks smaller than six inches in diameter for best results. Apply the mixture in a band around the lower 12-18 inches of trunk, thoroughly soaking the bark until it’s wet but not dripping.
4. Foliar Spray For Seedlings
Young Tree of Heaven sprouts surrender easily to foliar sprays. Mix glyphosate or triclopyr with water according to label instructions and spray directly onto leaves until they’re thoroughly wet.
The Ohio summer months work best for this approach. Target seedlings and saplings under 8 feet tall, as taller trees require too much chemical and create drift concerns. Repeat applications may be necessary as new sprouts emerge.
5. Root Disruption Through Tilling
Mechanical disruption works wonders on smaller infestations. Use a tiller or shovel to repeatedly disturb the soil and expose roots throughout the growing season.
This method exhausts the tree’s energy reserves by forcing it to continually produce new growth. Most effective in Ohio’s spring and summer months when the tree is actively growing. Combine with other methods for stubborn patches to prevent regrowth.
6. Strategic Mowing Regimen
Regular mowing keeps young trees from establishing dominance. Set your mower at its lowest setting and run over seedlings and small saplings repeatedly throughout Ohio’s growing season.
The key is consistency – mow every two weeks during spring and summer to prevent photosynthesis from replenishing root reserves. While this won’t kill established root systems immediately, it gradually weakens them over several seasons of persistent cutting.
7. Competitive Native Planting
Fight nature with nature by introducing competitive native species. After removing Tree of Heaven, immediately replant with aggressive native Ohio plants like black walnut, which produces chemicals that inhibit Ailanthus growth.
Other good competitors include fast-growing natives like sycamore and oak. These create shade that Tree of Heaven seedlings struggle to penetrate, while their extensive root systems compete for nutrients and water in the soil.
8. Professional Stem Injection
For larger trees, professional stem injection delivers herbicide directly into the circulatory system. Small holes are drilled at downward angles into the trunk, and herbicide is injected using specialized equipment.
This precision approach minimizes environmental impact while maximizing effectiveness. Many Ohio conservation districts offer equipment loans or contractor recommendations for this specialized technique. Results are visible within weeks as foliage browns and dies back.
9. Biological Control With Weevils
Nature’s own solution has arrived in Ohio! The Ailanthus weevil (Eucryptorrhynchus brandti) specifically targets Tree of Heaven, feeding on leaves and boring into stems.
These specialized insects are being studied by Ohio Department of Natural Resources as a potential biological control agent. While not yet widely available for public release, conservation authorities are establishing test sites across the state. Keep an eye on ODNR announcements for future availability.