An insecticide with some systemic activity will give the best control. Follow the label instructions for application method, timing, and dose rate. Outlying populations thought to be part of the original natural range occur in southern Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Alabama, and Georgia. Black locust has been successfully planted in almost every state. Naturalized populations occur throughout the United States, southern Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Black locust has a shallow, aggressive root system.
The bark of black locust is deeply furrowed and is dark reddish-brown to black in color. It has an alternate branching pattern, which creates a zigzag effect. The pinnately compound leaves are 8 to 14 inches long, with 7 to 19 short-stalked leaflets. They usually bloom in May or June. Heavy seed production can be expected annually or biannually.