Discover how to identify and organically eliminate the stubborn glandular tree of heaven while preserving your garden’s biodiversity!
Pexels / Jimmy Chan
Personally, I always find it exciting when it turns out that a plant is not only a beautiful sight but also a true survivor and sometimes a bit of a stubborn guest in the garden. The tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is exactly such a plant – both impressive and a challenge in organic gardening.
The tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is a fast-growing, invasive tree originally native to East Asia, but today it can be found in many urban and natural environments worldwide. Due to its rapid regeneration and adaptability, it poses a challenge for many organic gardeners, especially since it tends to spread at the expense of biodiversity.
If you have ever encountered the tree of heaven, you know it is not easily confused with other trees. It grows very quickly, up to 2 metres per year, and can reach heights of 20-25 metres. Its leaves are long, sometimes up to 60 centimetres, composed of 8 to 20 pairs of leaflets. These leaves contain distinctive glands, which is where the plant’s Hungarian name originates.
Its natural habitat is East Asia, but over the past centuries, thanks to human activity, it has spread worldwide, especially in urban parks, along roadsides, and on neglected lands. The plant tolerates polluted air and drought well, which is why it thrives in urban environments.
Surely you feel curious about why this plant is so resilient? What makes it so stubborn in its natural environment?
I believe the tree of heaven is a true survivor, but unfortunately not always in the best sense. Many gardeners and conservationists consider it a stubborn weed because it spreads extremely easily and displaces native plants. This is harmful not only to the plants but to the entire ecosystem, as it reduces biodiversity.
One of the most problematic traits of this invasive species is its ability to produce new shoots from both roots and trunk, making it almost impossible to eradicate simply. This characteristic is especially dangerous for organic gardens, where maintaining natural balance is the goal.
Ask yourself: “How can I manage this plant in my garden without endangering the other species living there?” I think this is one of the most important questions we should always consider.
The tree of heaven’s rapid growth and regeneration are no accident. This survival strategy involves a kind of “emergency” growth that helps it suppress competing plants as quickly as possible. The plant contains hormones that stimulate the formation of new shoots, so pruning or root damage does not cause fatal harm.
This fast regeneration is one reason why organic gardeners must not neglect regular care and removal of shoots. Personally, I always recommend keeping an eye on the plant and not letting it grow too large, as controlling it becomes much harder then.
| Characteristic | Explanation | Organic gardener’s advice |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid growth | Up to 2 metres per year, quickly shading its surroundings | Regular pruning to suppress growth |
| Regeneration | New shoots from root suckers and trunk after damage | Continuous weeding and removal to prevent new shoots |
| Hormonal effect | Stimulates growth of new shoots | Monitor shoots and remove them in time |
How do you manage fast-spreading plants in your garden? I would love to hear about your experiences because I believe community knowledge is the best weapon against such challenges.
Although the tree of heaven is very resilient, it is not completely protected from natural enemies. Certain insects, fungi, and microorganisms can suppress the plant, although their effectiveness is usually limited. I believe these natural enemies play an important role in organic gardening, as we aim to maintain balance rather than resort to chemical eradication.
Some studies suggest that biological control – for example, using pest insects or fungi – may help reduce the tree of heaven’s spread, but this method is not yet widespread or fully proven. Personally, I am patient and believe that nature will eventually find its balance if we support this process.
I’m curious what you think: will natural enemies be able to curb the tree of heaven’s spread in your garden, or is regular manual work the solution? From my experience, a combination of both is the best approach.
Have you ever thought about how soil is not just a pile of dust but a living, breathing community full of tiny yet crucial inhabitants? After eradicating the tree of heaven, it is especially important to rebuild this living system, as the soil’s microbiological activity directly affects the health and growth of our plants.
Microbiological soil activators are natural preparations that help increase the population and activity of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in the soil. These tiny organisms break down organic matter, release nutrients, and improve soil structure.
Once the soil life is restored, it’s time to consider which plants to grow and how, to maintain soil health in the long term. Crop rotation not only benefits plant health but also improves soil nutrient supply and structure.
Have you thought about how different plant groups have varying nutrient needs? For example, legumes can fix atmospheric nitrogen and enrich the soil, while brassicas tend to deplete many nutrients.
What crop rotation do you use at home? Is there a plant you always reintroduce to your garden, or do you prefer trying new varieties?
When the tree of heaven disappears, the garden is left somewhat of an “empty space” that is worth restoring with native plants that support local wildlife and contribute to maintaining biodiversity. These plants are not only beautiful but also useful: they provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and other animals.
Planting native species helps prevent the re-spread of invasive species and contributes to soil stabilization and restoring natural nutrient cycles.
Which native plant do you like best? Is there one particularly dear to your heart or indispensable in an organic garden?
One of the key issues in organic gardening is sustainable water and nutrient management. After removing the tree of heaven, soil structure may change, so it is especially important to focus on moisture retention and nutrient replenishment.
For watering, it’s best to choose early morning or evening hours when evaporation is lowest, so deeper soil layers receive enough water. For nutrient supply, the ideal is to use composted organic matter and natural manures, which nourish the soil long-term without harming microorganisms.
How do you manage water supply and nutrient replenishment? Do you have a favourite method you’d like to share?
Stopping the spread of the tree of heaven and maintaining the garden’s ecological balance is not a one-time task but a long-term challenge requiring conscious attention and community cooperation.
Early detection of invasive species and regular monitoring are crucial. Let’s not allow the tree of heaven to start conquering again! Keeping a simple observation diary to document changes in your garden can be very helpful.
Do you take part in community gardening? What experiences have you gained, and how does it help you maintain your organic garden?
If you also feel that your garden is not just a green patch but a living, breathing ecosystem, then after eradicating the tree of heaven, it’s worth patiently and lovingly restoring the soil and habitat. Nature always welcomes us back; we just need to give it time and space to sprout anew.
Remember, organic gardening is not a competition but a shared journey with the earth and ourselves. If you have questions or would like to share your own experiences, feel free to write! After all, the most beautiful part of gardening is when we learn from each other and grow together.