What is the city’s plan for dealing with the smelly, invasive scourge known as “tree of heaven”? They’re worse than blackberries. I demand answers! —Future Karen
Environmental apocalypses aren’t what they used to be, Karen. Just a few years ago, we were freaking about things that might end civilization by 2100. Now that even making it to 2035 seems like a long shot, getting folks to care about longer-term threats like invasive species is like trying to convince Betty White to pay extra for a 30-year roof.
That said, few invasive species are more obnoxious than the tree of heaven. It’s fast-growing, extravagantly fertile, and thrives in situations that would make most plants look like pre-resurrection Groot. Its hardy, wide-ranging roots exude a toxin that stunts the growth of surrounding flora, and it can grow big enough to destroy your house’s foundation in just a few years…