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Stop the plague: Tree of heaven threatens Maintal's nature and buildings!
Maintal is fighting against the invasive tree of heaven, which threatens native species and causes ecological damage. Help wanted!
Stop the plague: Tree of heaven threatens Maintal's nature and buildings!
In Maintal, the population is facing a special challenge: the tree of heaven, officially classified as an invasive neophyte, is spreading unstoppably. This species, introduced to Europe from China in the 18th century, has proven to be extremely adaptable. With an impressive growth of up to 2-3 meters per year and a height of up to 30 meters, the tree of heaven can pose a serious threat to our native flora. One specimen can produce thousands of seeds every year and clone new trees through root shoots. The city administration is asking citizens to help combat this tree species, which not only hinders the growth of native plants, but also causes damage to walls, paths and even sewers. Vorsprung Online reports on the massive damage that can be caused by the roots of the tree of heaven.
But what exactly makes this tree so problematic? The tree of heaven releases substances into the soil that suppress the growth of other plants. In addition, the pollen can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people. It is often noticed by its pinnate leaves, which have 10-40 individual leaflets, and the characteristic, unpleasant smell when crushed.
Together against the tree of heaven
The city's recommendations for combating the disease are clear: Younger specimens up to 50 cm high should be dug up along with their roots, while larger occurrences should be reported via the city's suggestion and event management or the Hessian State Office's reporting portal. There are no simple solutions because conventional cutting often leads to an increased sprouting reaction. It is advisable to carry out several prunings per year and, before the seeds are ripe, to cut off the flower spikes to minimize spread. The root material should not be composted but rather disposed of in incineration plants or suitable landfills.
At the same time, cities and communities such as Baden in Switzerland are researching innovative methods to combat the tree of heaven. One approach is to cut into the tree's bark to allow it to die for years—a method called "ringing." Experiments are also being carried out in conjunction with steam treatment to damage the root cells and prevent new shoots from sprouting. [SRF].
Once established, the tree of heaven is difficult to remove. The city administration of Maintal has also given some specific advice to citizens on how to effectively combat the tree of heaven in order to stop its spread as quickly as possible. Even if it is complicated, the population must stick together to protect nature and the local flora.