Host an Event Volunteer Join Tickets

Support the plant database you love!

Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

Help us grow by giving to the Plant Database Fund or by becoming a member

Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?

Share

Ask Mr. Smarty Plants

Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Search Smarty Plants
See a list of all Smarty Plants questions

Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

Need help with plant identification, visit the plant identification page.

 
rate this answer
Not Yet Rated

Friday - August 17, 2012

From: Fayetteville, TN
Region: Select Region
Topic: Invasive Plants, Non-Natives, Trees
Title: Controlling seeding of non- native, invasive Paulownia from Fayetteville TN
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

My husband planted a Paulownia tree against my advice about eight years ago. This summer it has huge seed pods. How do I keep the seeds from invading the wooded area of our property?

ANSWER:

Time machine. Go back 8 years ago and make it clear to your husband that the tree goes or you do. We know of no way to keep seeds from going where they wish. And sprouting. And damaging your wooded area.

We would begin by going to the source and getting rid of the original tree and any others that have sprouted. Then, vigilance. You will have to learn what the early seedlings look like and snatch them out of the ground as quickly as they sprout. This could take years, but compared to the damage they could do to the wooded area, you will probably feel it's worth it. Here are some previous answers on Paulownia from Mr. Smarty Plants. We are sorry you didn't find us 8 years ago when you really needed us. Each link has others and some may be duplicates.

San Marcos, TX

Westminster, MD

Austin, TX

 

 

More Trees Questions

Over-trimming of native linden tree
November 06, 2008 - Dear Mr. Smarty Plants, My huge beautiful linden tree was just way over trimmed. It is planted near the house, so they cut most of the branches on that side all the way back to the trunk. I now have...
view the full question and answer

Fastest growing shade tree for Austin.
April 27, 2015 - What is the fastest growing shade tree suitable for Austin? We are anticipating selling or renting our house in two to three years and want a shade tree for a baked full sun area of the yard that will...
view the full question and answer

Pinus taeda (Loblolly pines) for a property in Van Zandt County, Texas
March 17, 2015 - I want to initiate a stand of loblolly pine trees on our property in Van Zandt County in NE Texas. Assuming the ph factor is within range, how do I obtain seedings for this endeavor? Any other advic...
view the full question and answer

Transplanting Seedling Texas Mountain Laurels
April 15, 2013 - I have two mountain laurels that I grew from seed. They are in pots, but the roots have grown through the bottom and into my flower bed. The trees are about 6 feet tall. They have already bloomed. So ...
view the full question and answer

Evergreen ornamental tree choice in northern Indiana
June 10, 2009 - Can you please advise on growing Lemon Cypress trees outdoors in zones 5/6 zip code 46311
view the full question and answer

Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today.