Maple tree helicopters, also known as maple seedlings, are a common sight in the spring. They are the result of maple tree seeds sprouting and growing in your yard. While they look beautiful, they can quickly become a nuisance, as they compete with your other plants for resources, and can quickly take over your garden. If you’re wondering how to get rid of maple tree helicopters, there are a few different methods to try.
What Are Maple Tree Helicopters?
Maple tree helicopters, also known as maple seedlings, are the small, green, lopsided helicopters that you see spinning and twirling in the air during the spring. These helicopters are actually helicopter-shaped maple tree seeds. Maple trees produce these helicopters in order to spread their seeds and reproduce.
How to Get Rid of Maple Tree Helicopters
There are a few different methods to get rid of maple tree helicopters. Depending on your situation, one or more methods may be more effective than others.
Removal by Hand
One way to get rid of maple tree helicopters is to simply pick them up by hand. This is one of the most labor-intensive methods, but it is also the most effective. You can pick up the helicopters as they appear in your yard, or you can simply rake them up. Be sure to wear gloves when picking up the helicopters, as the little seeds can be sharp.
Mulching
Another way to get rid of maple tree helicopters is to mulch the area where they are appearing. Mulching will smother the maple tree helicopters and prevent them from sprouting and growing. Be sure to use a thick layer of mulch and cover the entire area where the helicopters are appearing.
Herbicides
Herbicides can also be used to get rid of maple tree helicopters. Herbicides are a chemical that will kill the maple tree helicopters and prevent them from growing. Be sure to use an herbicide that is safe for your lawn, and follow all directions on the label. Also, be sure to wear protective clothing and gloves when using herbicides.
Preventing Maple Tree Helicopters
The best way to get rid of maple tree helicopters is to prevent them from appearing in the first place. Raking up fallen helicopters and removing them from your yard can help prevent the helicopters from reappearing in the future. Pruning your maple trees can also help prevent the helicopters from appearing in your yard, as the trees will not be able to produce as many helicopters. Finally, avoiding the use of herbicides will help keep your lawn free of maple tree helicopters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are maple tree helicopters?
Maple tree helicopters, also known as maple seedlings, are the small, green, lopsided helicopters that you see spinning and twirling in the air during the spring. These helicopters are actually helicopter-shaped maple tree seeds.
How do you get rid of maple tree helicopters?
There are a few different methods to get rid of maple tree helicopters. Removal by hand, mulching the area, and using herbicides are all methods that can be used to get rid of maple tree helicopters.
What is the best way to prevent maple tree helicopters?
The best way to prevent maple tree helicopters is to rake up fallen helicopters and remove them from your yard. Pruning your maple trees and avoiding the use of herbicides can also help prevent the helicopters from appearing in your yard.
Do maple tree helicopters cause any harm?
Maple tree helicopters can cause harm to your other plants, as they compete with them for resources. Maple tree helicopters can also quickly take over your garden, if they are not removed in a timely manner.
Are maple tree helicopters dangerous?
Maple tree helicopters are not dangerous, but the little seeds can be sharp, so it is best to wear gloves when picking them up.
How long do maple tree helicopters last?
Maple tree helicopters will typically last from late spring to early summer.
How often do maple tree helicopters appear?
Maple tree helicopters typically appear every spring.
Can you eat maple tree helicopters?
No, maple tree helicopters should not be eaten.