How to Plant Tree of Heaven Seeds

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is a fast-growing deciduous tree that is native to China. It is also known as “Ghetto Palm”, “Tree of Hell” or “Stink Tree” due to its pungent smell. While the tree of heaven may have a bad reputation, it is a hardy tree that can grow in a wide range of conditions. If you want to grow tree of heaven in your garden or backyard, you can easily start from seeds. Here is how to plant tree of heaven seeds:

Collecting tree of heaven seeds

You can collect tree of heaven seeds from the ripened fruits that hang in clusters from the tree. The fruits resemble helicopter seeds, and when the outer casing dries and cracks in autumn, the seeds are released. Collect the fruits before they fall to the ground, but be careful as the tree of heaven sap can cause skin irritation in some people.

Preparing the soil

Tree of heaven grows well in most soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level. You can also add compost or manure to improve the soil structure and nutrients. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged before planting the seeds.

Planting the seeds

You can plant tree of heaven seeds either in the fall or spring. If you decide to plant in the fall, make sure to do it before the first frost. This will give the seeds enough time to establish before winter. To plant the seeds, dig a hole about an inch deep and drop a seed into it. Cover the seed with soil and pat it down gently. Space the seeds at least 20 feet apart to give the trees enough space to grow.

Caring for tree of heaven seedlings

After planting, water the seeds daily for the first few weeks. Once the seedlings establish, you can reduce the watering frequency to once or twice a week. Fertilize the seedlings with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote growth. When the seedling reaches a height of about 3 feet, prune the top to encourage branching. Tree of heaven is a fast-growing tree, and it can grow up to 5-6 feet per year under ideal conditions.

Controlling tree of heaven

Tree of heaven can become invasive if left unchecked. It spreads through its roots, suckers, and seeds, and it can quickly take over an area. To control tree of heaven, you can either pull out the seedlings or apply herbicides to the leaves or bark. However, herbicide application should be done with caution and only by a trained professional.

Tree of heaven can be a valuable addition to your garden or backyard if you know how to plant and care for it. By following these easy steps, you can grow a beautiful and hardy tree that is sure to provide plenty of shade and visual interest.