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Amur maple interferes with growth of nearly plants #833294

Asked June 01, 2023, 10:05 PM EDT

I had an Amur maple removed from my yard because nothing grows well around it. I just read that an Amur maple releases a allelopathic chemicals that impair plant growth. Is there something I can do to treat the ground around this tree was so plants can grow and thrive? Essentially how do I reverse the effects of the harmful chemical the tree released nearby?

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

As far as I could learn from a lit search there are not protocols for neutralizing allelopathic chemicals secreted by the maple. Persistence in the soil is affected by soil PH, temperature, amount of water, and soil composition. Allelopathic chemicals can last for days to years depending on the source and factors listed above. Hardwood mulches are being studied for their weed suppression characteristics but maple hasn’t been studied. Raised beds with new soil will be ready to plant immediately, top dressing with new soil and compost may be enough to reduce any allelopathy or waiting a season may be enough. Several sources state it’s affect is on germination so transplants will probably grow well. 

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