Knowledgebase
Tree of heaven and lantern flies #878273
Asked July 22, 2024, 2:10 PM EDT
Good afternoon,
My name is Robert and I am looking for some agricultural advice.
I had a quite large tree of heaven in my back yard that I cut down and I didn't know what it was at the time. Since then my yard and the area where the tree was have sprouts growing at an astounding rate and I have tried everything I can think of to get it to stop but to no avail. I have no clue what to do, but from what I can tell the trees roots extend completely across my yard and the sprouts are growing from the directly which means I cant just pull them by said roots.
Also I have lantern flies all over the property as well because of the tree.
Any advice on this subject would be greatly appreciated.
Prince William County Virginia
Expert Response
The VA Dept of Forestry (DOF) Topic 55 September 2021 recommends a foliar (leaf) sprays for small Tree of Heaven (TOH) Ailanthus Altissima invasive sprouts.
See: https://dof.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/FT0055_Ailanthus-Control-Methods_pub.pdf
The VCE 2024 Pest Management Guide also identifies TOH controls in their Ailanthus Pub 420-322. which is attached to this email.
Both publications recommend Triclopyr. This herbicide solution is sprayed on all the fully-expanded leaves of individual seedlings/saplings. This treatment can be used when the unwanted TOH foliage is popping up in lawn and hedgerow areas that were not mowed due to the drought. For this type of foliar leaf application you can select a product with one of the following levels of active ingredient concentrations.
- 1.5% triclopyr ester
- 2% triclopyr amine
when these small plants are starting to move carbohydrates into their root systems. Make sure the full set of leaves on each plant is covered by the spray.
Whenever homeowners are using pesticides the HD always recommends protective clothing; a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, shoes, socks. For the TOH recommended herbicide chemical-resistant gloves and wrap around safety glasses should also be used.
The seedlings/saplings can stand for 5-7+ days and you should then be able to see they have fully wilted and turned brown. Keep family and pets away from the treated plants until which time the lawn area has recovered sufficiently and is growing again and you can mow the seedling/samplings down. You will likely be required to repeat this each fall for several years. You might consider grinding out the main TOH's stump to further deplete its extensive root network & energy storage.
For additional info about Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) controls being recommended in your county or any follow-up questions on TOH - I am referring you to your Prince William Master Gardener County Help Desk. They can be reached at the following email: <personal data hidden>
I hope this info helps. Good Luck!
- Becky
