What is Tree of Heaven?

The Tree of Heaven, scientifically known as Ailanthus altissima, is a deciduous tree native to northeast and central China and Taiwan. It's often found in urban areas and disturbed habitats. While it may sound divine by name, its impacts on the ecosystems are dire. Additionally, the Tree of Heaven has an ability to produce chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants around it.

Why is Tree of Heaven Invasive?

• Sprout from root fragments, making it difficult to fully remove once established.
• The tree's roots can damage sewers, foundations, and pavements, causing significant infrastructural harm.
• Tree of Heaven form large patches that can spread to cover several acres of land
• A single Tree of Heaven can turn into a patch containing thousands of trees
• A single Tree of Heaven plant can produce 10,000 seeds
• Tree of Heaven has extremely vigorous and resilient growth that re-sprouts after cutting
• Tree of Heaven suppresses native vegetation and can completely take over a given area

Why is it crucial to remove Tree of Heaven?

Invasive Nature: The Tree of Heaven spreads aggressively, often outcompeting native species for resources. This can result in a significant reduction in biodiversity.

Damage to Infrastructure: The tree's robust root system can cause extensive damage to sidewalks, driveways, and building foundations.

Harmful to Other Plants: The Tree of Heaven releases chemicals into the soil that can inhibit the growth of surrounding plants, a process known as allelopathy.

Pest Attraction: The tree is known to host the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive insect that can harm other plants and crops.

Regrowth from Roots: Even a small portion of root left in the ground can regrow into a full tree, making the species hard to fully eliminate and control.

Ecosystem Disruption: The rapid growth and spread of the Tree of Heaven can disrupt local ecosystems, affecting wildlife habitats and food sources.

Tree of Heaven infestations will get worse over time

Tree of Heaven infestation lowers property value

Tree of Heaven can spread to neighbouring property, causing legal disputes

Permanently removing Tree of Heaven

Mechanical Removal: For smaller trees, we use manual or mechanical removal methods, which involves cutting down the tree and grinding the stump to prevent regrowth.

Treatment: When necessary, we employ eco-friendly treatments to eradicate Tree of Heaven.

Disposal: Cut tree material is safely disposed of, typically by chipping, burning, or hauling to an approved site. This helps prevent the spread of any remaining viable seeds or roots.

Follow-up: Any re-growth is promptly treated or removed.

Revegetation: After the Tree of Heaven is fully removed, we suggest replanting the area with native species to restore the habitat and prevent re-infestation. This procedure ensures that not only is the Tree of Heaven effectively removed, but also that it doesn't reestablish itself in the future.

Tree of Heaven removal cost

Contact us for a free in-person quote in Victoria, BC and Jake will provide an exact work order and quote.

Won’t the Tree of Heaven just grow back?

In the worst infestations up to 2 follow up visits may be necessary to completely eradicate re-growth. Most Tree of Heaven patches we service are completely and permanently removed in one visit.

Expert Help:

Contact us for a Free Quote. We care intensely about the success of each project.