Ash Dieback
What is Ash Dieback?
Ash dieback (Chlara) is caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus which is a chronic fungal infection affecting Ash trees across the UK, particularly in the South. The fungus is spread through the leaf litter on the ground and throughout July to October it will release spores into the surrounding atmosphere that land on the leaves of nearby trees. It will then penetrate the leaf and beyond. The fungus then grows within the tree blocking its water transport systems, causing it to eventually die.
Symptoms of Ash Dieback!
The infection of Ash Dieback, will lead to a major leaf production loss and therefore creating large amounts of dead branches within the canopy, particularly the tips, hence Ash Dieback. Another symptom that is easy to spot, is the trees defence mechanism where it will shoot out clumps of new growth close to the stem. The tree will try to fight back but year on year the infections will eventually kill it. If you are worried about an Ash tree in your garden, whether its showing signs or not, it is always best to call an expert. That is where we can help. Whether it is advice about your Ash tree or management steps to help its longevity, we will be able to point you in the right direction.
How do we manage Ash Dieback?
Health and Safety is the first step in managing trees with Ash Dieback. Is it located within proximity to a highway or footpath or is it in a field away from harm.
Secondly, we need to assess the canopy decline percentage. Trees with early signs of dieback can just be monitored by regular visits. However, if the tree is showing up to 25% canopy decline and/or the presence of epicormic growth close to the stem, in high-risk zones, they should be considered for felling. However, in low-risk zones, management techniques such as heavy reduction pruning can help with the longevity but ultimately will not stop the infection killing the tree.
Trees showing 25 – 50% canopy decline and/or presence of epicormic growth close to the stem, in high and medium risk zones should be felled.
The future of Ash trees.
A small proportion of Ash trees may have what’s called a ‘genetic tolerance’ to ash dieback, meaning they will survive and reproduce to create the next generation of Ash trees. Therefore it is important to understand which trees are showing symptoms and which are not to help with the survival of our beloved Ash trees.
