Top-Rated Tree of Heaven Removal on South Vancouver Island

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is one of the most aggressive and destructive invasive trees in the world—and it’s beginning to establish itself in urban and rural landscapes across South Vancouver Island. With rapid growth, toxic sap, and an extensive underground root system, this tree can cause significant damage to native ecosystems, hardscapes, and even building foundations.

At Ascent Yard Care, we specialize in the complete and permanent removal of Tree of Heaven, combining mechanical removal, targeted herbicide treatment, and long-term monitoring. As the largest and most experienced invasive species removal company on Vancouver Island, we’re trusted by municipalities, developers, and private landowners to stop the spread of this invasive tree before it becomes an unmanageable problem.

Why Tree of Heaven Is a Serious Threat

Tree of Heaven is often mistaken for a harmless ornamental due to its fern-like leaves, but it’s one of the most invasive and ecologically destructive trees on the planet. It spreads rapidly through root suckering and prolific seed production, forming dense stands that push out native vegetation and degrade soil quality.

Here’s why Tree of Heaven is a major issue on Vancouver Island:

• Spreads aggressively through roots and seeds—up to 20–30 feet away from the parent tree
• Re-sprouts rapidly after cutting, often with even greater vigor
• Produces allelopathic chemicals that kill surrounding plants and prevent regrowth
• Damages infrastructure by infiltrating cracks in sidewalks, foundations, and retaining walls
• Attracts spotted lanternfly, a serious invasive insect not yet widespread in B.C., but closely associated with Tree of Heaven

This tree is nearly impossible to manage without a strategic, expert-level removal plan.

Ascent’s Professional Tree of Heaven Removal Process

Because Tree of Heaven fights back when cut down, proper removal requires more than pruning—it requires a targeted, multi-phase approach that eliminates both the tree and its regenerative root system.

1. Site Assessment

We begin with a detailed property inspection to map all visible trees and potential underground sucker growth. Tree of Heaven spreads underground far beyond its canopy, so early detection is key.

2. Mechanical or Manual Removal

For mature trees, we safely cut and remove the main structure, then use root excavation techniques to expose and eliminate the rhizome network. We take precautions to avoid stimulating excessive root suckering.

3. Targeted Herbicide Treatment

Tree of Heaven requires licensed herbicide application for effective long-term control. Our certified technicians apply systemic herbicide directly to the stump or via injection, ensuring it reaches the root system and halts regrowth.

4. Ongoing Monitoring & Restoration

Because this species can persist for years if not fully eradicated, we offer follow-up inspections and retreatment plans. We also assist with replanting native or non-invasive trees to restore the site and outcompete future growth.

Why Ascent Yard Care Leads in Invasive Tree Removal

Ascent Yard Care is Vancouver Island’s top invasive plant and tree removal company, operating with full-time crews, advanced equipment, and decades of combined expertise. Tree of Heaven is one of the toughest species to eliminate, and we have the tools and experience to do it right.

Why landowners, developers, and municipalities choose us:

• Permanent results – We eliminate both the tree and its underground root system
• Certified herbicide applicators – Required for Tree of Heaven control
• Large-scale capability – We handle urban, rural, and wildland infestations
• Fully insured and safety-certified – WCB-covered and liability-insured crews
• Fast response times – Multiple crews serving South Vancouver Island daily
• Restoration-focused – We help you reclaim and improve the land long after removal

Service Area

We remove Tree of Heaven across South Vancouver Island, including:

• Victoria
• Oak Bay
• Saanich
• Langford
• Esquimalt
• Metchosin
• Highlands
• Sooke
• Mill Bay
• Shawnigan Lake
• Cobble Hill
• Cowichan Valley
• Gulf Islands (by request)

Request a Free Tree of Heaven Removal Quote Today

If you’ve spotted Tree of Heaven on your property—or suspect it—don’t wait. Trust Vancouver Island’s most experienced invasive tree removal team to stop the spread before it gets worse.