Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an impressive-looking tree, but its vigorous root system can make it particularly difficult to manage. Simply felling the tree may not solve the problem: a living stump and its roots can produce new shoots, sometimes some distance from the original tree.
MB Trees recently treated a large Tree of Heaven stump in a churchyard using specialist herbicide plugs. The aim was to deliver a carefully controlled treatment directly into the stump, helping to suppress regrowth while minimising disturbance to the surrounding churchyard.
Why the stump required treatment
Tree of Heaven is a fast-growing, non-native species with a strong tendency to regenerate. After the main stem is removed, stored energy within the root system may allow the tree to produce shoots from the stump or send up suckers elsewhere nearby.
This makes follow-up treatment an important part of managing the tree. Without it, repeated cutting can become necessary and may fail to address the underlying root system.
A targeted stump-treatment method
Because the stump stood in a sensitive churchyard setting, the work needed to be precise and contained. Rather than applying a herbicide across the surrounding ground, treatment plugs were installed directly into holes drilled around the living outer portion of the stump.
The active tissue responsible for transporting water and nutrients lies close to the outside of a stump. Positioning the treatment around this area allows the herbicide to enter the tree’s vascular system and move into the remaining roots.
A series of evenly spaced holes was drilled around the stump in accordance with the treatment product’s instructions. The number and spacing of the holes were determined by the size of the stump.
Installing the herbicide plugs
Each plug contains a measured quantity of granular herbicide within a sealed casing. Once placed in a prepared hole and driven home, the plug releases its contents inside the wood.
This enclosed delivery method keeps the treatment concentrated within the stump. It also avoids spraying and helps reduce the potential for contact with surrounding grass, plants and churchyard features.
The plugs were installed around the stump’s perimeter, targeting the living tissue immediately inside the bark. Once treatment was complete, the small plug heads remained visible across the surface of the stump.
What happens next?
Stump treatment is not necessarily the end of the process, particularly with a persistent species such as Tree of Heaven. The site should be monitored for fresh shoots or root suckers during subsequent growing seasons. Any new growth can then be assessed and treated as part of a longer-term management plan.
The herbicide used for this type of work is a professional plant-protection product. It must be applied by an appropriately trained operator, in accordance with its authorisation, product label and current regulations.
Need advice about a troublesome tree or stump?
Effective tree management starts with correct identification and a treatment plan suited to the species, location and surrounding environment.
If you have a persistent stump, unwanted regrowth or a tree in a sensitive location, contact MB Trees for professional advice and a site-specific assessment.