Very bad infestations of Tree of Heaven can be found on the west face of Knox Mountain in Poplar Point, along the hike to Paul’s Tomb, and throughout Okanagan Centre. Seeds of both these species are blown everywhere. Because they are tough and need little water they grow almost anywhere. They are often found growing in cracks in sidewalks and against foundations where they are hard to remove. Both are invading the wild, out-competing native species. With their fast growth and massive root systems, these two species are a weeding nightmare. Unless they are noticed and removed when very small they are hard to dig out, especially when they have hidden inside hedges or grown up through other plants. Search on Google images to identify their seedlings. Although not invasive in the wild, in irrigated landscapes Maple trees produce many seedlings. These are also difficult to remove when allowed to grow past seedling size. As with all deciduous trees (ones that drop their leaves in fall), unless all roots are removed, they will continue to grow even when cut down.

For more information and pictures of local invasive weeds search: Grow Me Instead and the Field Guide to Noxious Weeds