A sweetgum tree is a tall, graceful specimen that grows shiny dark green leaves in the growing season that turn to shades of red, purple, and yellow in the fall. A fast developing tree, the sweetgum provides lots of shade, while growing fine in a wide assortment of moisture and soil levels. The one significant defect of this tree is numerous of woody, spiny balls it let fall onto gardens and lawns and gardens across the US, beginning in early winter until spring. Below are some suggestions on how to get rid of sweet gum tree balls.
Raking or Blowing
Raking with a tine rake and bagging is a successful way of removing sweet gum balls and getting your exercise on at the same time. Another technique for removal is by using a power blower and blowing them into a pile for bagging. These things hurt, so always wear gloves when handling them. It is important to note that tall grass messes with the effectiveness of these techniques. After bagging, you can get rid of them via your trash service. If you want, you could have them chopped up for mulch or for art and crafts projects (if you’re into that). If this is the route you want to take, you might want to contact a tree contractor to do the job for you.
Lawn Vacuums
Most lawn mower vacuum systems get clogged up with the sweet gum balls, and a standard mower fires them out the sides of the mower deck. You might want to instead use a self-propelled or pull-behind lawn vacuum or a nut pickup machine for picking up the spiky fruit. Some units have a chipper mechanism to aid with composting. Although these tools to assist with eliminating the sweetgum balls, they are pricey to buy, making this method pricey.
Tree Removal
Permanently getting rid of the tree by cutting it down is the most efficient solution for eliminating the sweetgum ball issue from your outdoor space. If you decide to go this route, contact Tampa Tree Services and we will come out and provide a consultation on how we can help.
Chemicals
Chemicals are available for stopping the sweetgum from bearing fruit. However, they necessitate special application tools, are time-consuming, expensive, and hard to apply. When used they make the flowers on the tree fall, neutering the tree. Using chemicals require accurate application during the flowering phase.
