The following was received via email: Hello from Salem Mass, I am learning about invasives since 4 years ago I moved near a very small bird sanctuary. I understand the Norway Maples' roots give off phytotoxins which are very effective in their job. My question is if I have a very large (circumference of 48 inches) Norway Maple removed, including having its' stump ground down; Is there any data on when the Norway's roots become dormant and no longer emit phytotoxins? I am hoping to plant two truly native trees and a couple shrubs that will be helpful to the birds year round in place of the Norway but can't afford to do so and have these replacements fail to thrive. thank you for any input and/or resource guidance, Rachel
The main "phytotoxic" effect of Norway Maple is heavy shade, and the water-grabbing abilities of its roots. Both of these cease on the death of the tree. So safe to plant right away.
Yeah, I've never noticed a "ring of death" effect around Norway maples that would suggest actual toxicity. They just gobble up all the light and water, and absolutely every single one of those gazillion seeds seems to germinate within 15 minutes of hitting the ground.
The remaining roots will still be firm and in the way of digging for planting, until they rot. Trucking in topsoil and dumping it on top of the roots would give you clean ground to plant in without roots having to be dug through.
The roots are beyond description! Three years ago I planted a few perennials and transplanted them all this Spring because they were doing so poorly under the canopy of the N maple. It took me a long time to sort out the roots of the perennials from the thick mat of roots that had formed around the plants. tks Rachel
