I Cut Down Michigan’s Tree of Heaven and Made Life a Living Hell

Since early spring in Michigan, I've been cutting these lovely little invasive trees, ironically called the Tree of Heaven, out of the bushes surrounding my home. A few snips and pulls of a saw later, I was patting myself on the back for being a responsible homeowner. Snip, saw, and gone, right?

Nay nay.

The Tree of Heaven is the Hydra of Michigan's invasive trees. Cut off one head, and it feels like at least seven more take its place. My landscaping is now officially in need of an exorcist.

Why Cutting Michigan’s Tree of Heaven Backfires

A look at a row of hedges in Michigan before and after the invasive Tree of Heaven had been removed.

According to Michigan's Invasive Species Program, root shoots can form dense thickets, while roots can damage sewers and structures and release chemicals that hinder other plants.

Such a delightful houseguest.

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Oregon State University explains that cutting an established tree without killing it first triggers new shoots from its roots. Those little "trees" in the bushes may actually be connected to a bigger tree underground.

So, all I really did by simply cutting the tree down was give it a haircut.

How Michigan Homeowners Can Fight Back

A row of bushes with the Tree of Heaven recently removed, and an inset photo of the pile of brush that came as a result.

The trick is killing the roots before cutting. Oregon State recommends treating established plants from midsummer into early fall with a suitable herbicide, such as products containing glyphosate or triclopyr, then removing them after they die. Follow the label and protect other nearby plants and trees from the spray.

Already chopped yours? Apply an herbicide labeled for Tree of Heaven to the freshly cut stump according to its directions, then monitor and retreat new growth. This will likely be a multi-year backyard argument.

RELATED: Invasive Vine That Grows 6 Inches a Day Found in Michigan

Before you unleash hell on the Tree of Heaven, confirm the identity. Native sumac and black walnut can look similar, though the invasive Tree of Heaven's leaves have what is described as a "rotten-peanut-butter odor."

As to the name, Tree of Heaven. I'd like to have a word with whoever is handling branding in hell.