Question
I live near Charlottesville, VA. We had a lot cleared to build on, and it's being invaded by ailanthus - probably have 100 or so, most of which aren't very big yet. If you cut it, it multiplies. Can you tell me the best and simplest way (hopefully there is such a way) to control these things? Our lot is on a hill, and the area where the trees are doesn't lend itself to mowing. I'm leery of having a lot of these things close to the house, because I'm afraid that, since they're not very strong, they may endanger the house. Thanks.

Answer
Hers is alink to the control recommendations that most Southern Foresters use. http://www.invasive.org/eastern/srs/TofH.html

The basal spray would be your best bet or the spraying of the leaves. If you are not sure I would contact the local office of the Va. State Forestry agency and ask one of their Foresters to visit on the ground and make recommendations. Their Central office is in Charlottesville :
VDOF Central Office
Fontaine Research Park
900 Natural Resources Drive
Suite 800
Charlottesville, Virginia 22903
Phone: (434) 977-6555

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