An increasingly prevalent non-native tree in Toronto may no longer be welcome in some neighborhoods. Alan Page and his wife, residing in Leslieville near Jones Avenue and Gerrard Street E. for more than 20 years, have a ginkgo tree in their backyard that has become a point of contention. The tree has recently begun producing sticky and malodorous fruit each autumn, causing inconvenience as it is challenging to clean and attracts flying insects like bees and wasps, much to the residents’ dismay.
Despite the tree’s overall health, Page sought permission to remove it earlier this year, only to have his request denied by city forestry staff. His appeal is set to be reviewed by the Toronto and East York Community Council, with staff recommending against granting the removal.
Coun. Josh Matlow successfully proposed a request for forestry staff to explore innovative solutions to assist homeowners troubled by the noxious fruit of ginkgo trees, which fall and ripen in October, emitting an unpleasant smell likened to dog excrement and vomit. The city currently boasts approximately 11.5 million trees, with arborist Marc Ambeau estimating that numerous ginkgos are among them, having originated in China and now reaching maturity in Toronto.
Presently, homeowners must obtain city permits to fell trees with a diameter exceeding 30 cm, even on private properties, with potential fines of up to $100,000 for bylaw violations. These stringent regulations aim to enhance the city’s tree canopy to cover 40% by 2050, as it currently stands at around 30%. Matlow’s motion seeks solutions by 2027, particularly urging flexibility in tree removal rules concerning ginkgos.
Neighbour James Chiu, supporting Page’s appeal, shared concerns about the ginkgo fruit littering his yard and attracting animals, causing unpleasant odors. In the event of approval to remove the ginkgo tree, city staff suggest planting five new trees as a replacement, a condition Page welcomes to restore peace to his home and neighborhood.
Ambeau advises homeowners to appreciate the benefits of ginkgo trees, such as shade and wildlife habitat, while learning to accept the inconveniences they may bring, rather than advocating for the removal of every female ginkgo due to seasonal odors.