Knowledgebase
Are these mature trees of heaven? #842619
Asked July 25, 2023, 7:46 PM EDT
Wayne County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi David,
That does indeed look like tree of heaven. It's a terrible nuisance. To be sure, watch for reddish/pinkish clusters of seeds producing now or very soon.
Please read about tree of heaven removal before you attempt it. If you simply cut the trunk, it will send up numerous new shoots from its roots. If you go the herbicide route, most sources recommend applying late in the season when the tree is storing energy in its roots.
Here is a link to an article with recommendations from Penn State.
Scroll to page 6 for control suggestions from the USDA.
Seeds should be dropping soon. Make sure you clean them up and put them in trash bags--don't compost them--so that they do not germinate in your lawn or in the landfill.
I hope this helps. Thank you for being a responsible landowner and removing these trees.
Lindsey K. Kerr, MS, MHP (she, her, hers)
Consumer Horticulture Educator
Michigan State University Extension