Knowledgebase

Ailanthus Eradication #391343

Asked April 01, 2017, 11:55 AM EDT

Hi,

I've always assumed the tree in our backyard was a sumac, but after some recent research, I'm quite certain it is an Ailanthus. "Tree from Hell", wonderful! Anyway, from reading up on various blogs and the NPS website, looks like the best method to get rid of this thing is the "hack and squirt" method. Is there any specific brand of Triclopyr that you would recommend?  Where can I purchase it undiluted?  From my reading, sounds like most stuff you can buy at home depot is diluted.  This tree is huge - about 19" in diameter.  And its right next to our house.  So I'm a bit nervous about this endeavor, any tips and info would be much appreciated.  The thing has got to go, its about a half foot away from the edge of our roof and I'm SO sick of dealing with all the shoots each year.  And we have another one on the side of the house... but maybe I'll wait on my questions with that one, its more complicated (also very large but has prongs).  Ugh, this is not going to be fun!

Thank you in advance for any advice you can offer!

Best,

Carolina

Jefferson County Colorado

Expert Response

Hello Carolina,

Yes, Ailanthus (Tree of Heave/Hell) is a common weed tree in North America that originated in Asia.  It is often considered a tree-fall hazard around homes.

Based on the size and location of your tree, I recommend that you retain a licensed arborist to take down the tree.  They, or you, can then use the cut stump method to apply an herbicide to kill the roots and prevent suckering.  Triclopir, or other herbicides can be used as described in this weed report from U of Calif:  http://wric.ucdavis.edu/information/natural%20areas/wr_A/Ailanthus.pdf.

If you cannot find undilute triclopir at the big-box stores, try a locally-owned nursery or landscape supply company, or look online.  Or check with the arborist.

To find a licensed arborist, follow the link below to the International Arboriculture Society's 'Find an Arborist" search tool.
http://www.isa-arbor.com/findanarborist/findanarborist.aspx

Best regards,





Mari Hackbarth Replied April 03, 2017, 6:23 PM EDT

Loading ...