An exotic tree species that has become more common in Toronto is causing issues for residents in the area.
Alan Page and his spouse have resided in their Leslieville residence for more than two decades, with a ginkgo tree in their backyard being a longstanding feature of their property. However, the tree has recently started producing fruit in the fall that is sticky and malodorous, leading to complaints from residents like Page who find it challenging to clean off the residue, which attracts bees and wasps.
The noxious smell emanating from the female ginkgo tree’s fruit, likened by experts and homeowners to a mix of dog waste and vomit, has prompted residents to seek permission from city officials to remove the trees, despite their overall health. Although Page sought approval to have the tree taken down earlier this year, the city’s forestry staff rejected his request.
Page’s appeal is scheduled to be reviewed by the Toronto and East York Community Council on Thursday, although staff are advising against granting the appeal, emphasizing the tree’s value in enhancing the urban forest and providing various benefits.
Councillor Josh Matlow recently persuaded the council to explore innovative solutions to assist homeowners dealing with the unwanted fruit from ginkgo trees. The city is home to around 11.5 million trees, with arborists estimating that thousands of them are ginkgos. These trees, originating from China decades ago, are now maturing, leading to the introduction of their pungent fruit to homeowners.
Presently, homeowners must obtain a permit from the city to remove any tree with a diameter exceeding 30 cm on their property, with potential fines for violating this bylaw. The city aims to increase tree coverage to 40% by 2050, with the current estimate at approximately 30%.
Matlow’s motion calls for staff to propose solutions by 2027, with hopes of relaxing tree removal regulations concerning ginkgos promptly. One neighbor supporting Page’s appeal is James Chiu, who highlights the challenges posed by the rotting fruit in his yard, affecting his children and attracting animals.
If given approval to remove the ginkgo tree, Page has agreed to plant five new trees in its place. Arborist Ambeau suggests that while the ginkgo trees have downsides in the fall, such as the foul smell, homeowners should appreciate their benefits like shade and wildlife habitat.
