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Reporting ailanthus #872227

Asked June 08, 2024, 8:03 PM EDT

How do I report young ailanthus trees on Zoo land across the street from me? I hear they carry invasive parasites and should be reported.

Hamilton County Ohio

Expert Response

Reporting the occurrence of Ailanthus trees (tree of heaven) is not required because they are so widespread throughout Greater Cincinnati and the rest of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.  The trees don't carry parasites, but they are a host for the non-native spotted lanternfly (SLF).  However, the vast majority of our tree of heaven don't have SLF.  So far, the infestations are very spotty in our region.

On the other hand, if you find SLF on a tree of heaven, you should report it to the Ohio Department of Agriculture.  So you're reporting the insect, not the tree.  Here is the ODA website that shows you what SLF looks like and where you'd report it:

https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/invasive-pests/invasive-insects/slf


An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 09, 2024, 12:30 PM EDT

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