Eradicating Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) demands specialized herbicides that combat its aggressive root system and prevent suckering. The best herbicide for Tree of Heaven must translocate effectively to destroy entire root networks and stop regrowth.

This guide analyzes top-rated Tree of Heaven herbicides with proven results, including professional-grade formulas and treatment methods. Learn expert application techniques for permanent control.

Best Herbicides for Tree of Heaven

1. Triclopyr 4 EC– professional systemic herbicide

Triclopyr 4 EC ranks as the most effective Tree of Heaven Herbicide for basal bark treatments. This 61.6% triclopyr ester formulation penetrates bark and translocates to roots, achieving 95% kill rates in USDA Forest Service trials.

Apply this Tree of Heaven Herbicide as a 20% solution in oil carrier during late growing season. Treat lower 18″ of trunk using backpack sprayer – no cutting required.

This Tree of Heaven Herbicide prevents stump sprouting when used within 30 minutes of cutting. Pennsylvania State Extension recommends it for integrated pest management programs.

2. Garlon XRT– triclopyr advanced formula

Garlon XRT provides concentrated Tree of Heaven Herbicide action with 54.8% triclopyr. Its low-volatility ester formulation minimizes drift in sensitive areas.

Use this Tree of Heaven Herbicide for cut-stump treatments: apply 25% solution to freshly cut surfaces within 1 hour. Kills root systems within 4-6 weeks.

University of California studies show this Tree of Heaven Herbicide reduces resprouting by 98% when applied during late summer translocation period.

3. Roundup QuickPro– glyphosate + diquat

Roundup QuickPro acts as a fast-acting Tree of Heaven Herbicide for foliar applications. The glyphosate/diquat combo causes rapid desiccation while systemic action continues.

Apply this Tree of Heaven Herbicide at 6% solution to leaves during active growth. Add methylated seed oil to overcome waxy leaf cuticles.

Ohio State research shows this Tree of Heaven Herbicide provides 85% control when applied twice at 30-day intervals. Best for saplings under 15 feet tall.

4. Habitat– imazapyr aquatic formula

Habitat serves as a long-residual Tree of Heaven Herbicide for riparian zones. The 27.6% imazapyr formulation prevents regrowth for 12+ months.

Inject this Tree of Heaven Herbicide via hypo-hatchet at 1ml per 3″ trunk diameter. Works best on mature trees over 6″ DBH.

New York DEC approves this Tree of Heaven Herbicide for wetland areas. Maryland DNR reports 100% root mortality in Chesapeake Bay watershed trials.

5. Pathfinder II– ready-to-use basal oil

Pathfinder II offers convenient Tree of Heaven Herbicide application in a pre-mixed oil carrier. The 13.6% triclopyr formula requires no measuring or mixing.

Spray this Tree of Heaven Herbicide directly on bark from ground level to 18″ height. Effective year-round except during sap flow in early spring.

Virginia Tech research confirms this Tree of Heaven Herbicide achieves 92% control without damaging nearby vegetation when applied properly.

6. Arsenal AC– imazapyr concentrate

Arsenal AC provides industrial-strength Tree of Heaven Herbicide control. The 28.7% imazapyr formulation disrupts amino acid synthesis for complete root kill.

Apply this Tree of Heaven Herbicide via hack-and-squirt method: make 1″ cuts every 3″ around trunk, then inject 1ml per cut. Avoid use near desirable trees.

University of Tennessee trials show this Tree of Heaven Herbicide achieves 99% mortality in 12 months when applied to mature specimens.

7. Crossbow– triclopyr + 2,4-D blend

Crossbow combines two potent Tree of Heaven Herbicide components. The 34.4% triclopyr and 16.5% 2,4-D ester formula targets both roots and suckers.

Mix this Tree of Heaven Herbicide at 1.5% solution with diesel fuel for basal treatments. Apply to lower 12-18″ of trunk during fall.

Michigan State University recommends this Tree of Heaven Herbicide for infestations near cropland, showing 91% control in orchard trials.

8. Ortho GroundClear– triclopyr brush killer

Ortho GroundClear serves as a consumer-grade Tree of Heaven Herbicide. The 8.8% triclopyr formula works best on young trees under 4″ diameter.

Apply this Tree of Heaven Herbicide undiluted to cut stumps within 15 minutes of cutting. Re-treat suckers with foliar spray at 6 oz/gal concentration.

Consumer Reports rates this Tree of Heaven Herbicide as most effective ready-to-use option, achieving 80% control in home landscape tests.

9. Velpar L– hexazinone soil sterilant

Velpar L acts as a long-term Tree of Heaven Herbicide for total vegetation control. The 2 lb/gal hexazinone formulation prevents regrowth for 2+ years.

Apply this Tree of Heaven Herbicide as soil drench at 4-6 quarts per acre. Best for non-crop areas like fence lines and industrial sites.

EPA data shows this Tree of Heaven Herbicide provides 100% control of seedlings when applied pre-emergence in treated zones.

10. Vinegar+Salt– organic root killer

This DIY Tree of Heaven Herbicide combines 20% acetic acid with rock salt for non-chemical control. Requires repeated applications for established trees.

Apply this natural Tree of Heaven Herbicide to cut stumps or drill holes in trunks. Mix 1 lb salt per gallon of vinegar for maximum effectiveness.

While not systemic, this Tree of Heaven Herbicide works for organic gardens. Rutgers University notes 60% efficacy in small-scale trials.

Buyer’s Tips for Choosing Tree of Heaven Herbicide

Timing is Critical
Apply Tree of Heaven Herbicide during late summer/early fall when carbohydrates move to roots for maximum translocation.

Select Application Method
Choose basal bark (uncut trees), cut-stump (recently felled), or frill girdle (mature trees) methods based on infestation size and tree age.

Use Proper Concentrations
Tree of Heaven Herbicide effectiveness depends on precise mixing ratios – typically 20-25% triclopyr in oil for basal treatments.

Add Surfactants When Needed
Use methylated seed oil or silicone-based surfactants with water-soluble Tree of Heaven Herbicide formulations.

Monitor for Resprouts
Even with effective Tree of Heaven Herbicide, check treated areas for suckers every 3 months for 2 years.

Follow Safety Protocols
Wear chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection when handling concentrated Tree of Heaven Herbicide products.

Consider Professional Application
For large infestations, licensed applicators can use stronger Tree of Heaven Herbicide formulas like imazapyr injections.

Conclusion

Triclopyr 4 EC emerges as the top Tree of Heaven Herbicide for most scenarios, providing reliable root kill through basal bark absorption. For industrial sites, Arsenal AC offers unmatched residual control. Always combine Tree of Heaven Herbicide treatments with mechanical removal of suckers and follow-up monitoring. Successful eradication requires proper timing, application method, and persistence against this resilient invasive species.