Ash trees are incredibly versatile trees growing in various soils and climatic conditions. When fully grown, they can reach a towering height of 35m and live up to an impressive 400 years.
Generally growing in groups ash trees create a domed canopy that allows light to seep through their leaves onto the ground. Ash trees make the ideal habitat for several different wildlife species that rely on the trees to thrive, including birds, dormice, insects and wildflowers.
In history, the ash tree was seen as a sacred tree, believed to have medicinal properties. People often burned the wood to ward off evil spirits, and in Britain, druid wands were usually made of ash because of their straight grain.
It is not only wildlife that relies on ash trees. The timber from ash trees has been used for years because the wood is strong, durable and attractive. In fact It is one of the strongest hardwoods and absorbs shocks without splintering. The timber is used for furniture and tools including hammers, axes and spades because of the strength it has.
Ash dieback
The main threat to the beautiful ash tree is ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus). A highly destructive disease native to Eastern Asia, which is now widely found in Continental Europe, Ireland and the UK.
It was first discovered in the UK in 2012 and is now widespread throughout the four nations. The fungus can kill young trees quickly, although older established trees can resist the disease longer. However, they are then left open to other pests, attacking and killing them in their weakened state. The Woodland Trust says ‘Ash dieback will kill around 80% of ash trees across the UK. At the cost of billions of pounds.’
Symptoms of ash dieback and how it spreads
The leaves on the ash tree blacken and wilt. They can shed earlier than usual, and if the fungus has reached the trunk, lesions form, often in a diamond shape. The tree is then starved of nutrients and fluid, eventually dying. The spores can travel in winds tens of miles away or via movement from the public or animals. There is currently a ban on the importing and inland movement of ash seeds and plants in order to reduce the spread from contaminated trees.
The Forest Research website suggests that when the public visits woodland, they can help the spread of ash dieback by cleaning muddy boots, pushchair wheels, bikes and car tyres before leaving woodland or when getting home. They also suggest that gardeners burn (where permitted) or compost the leaves to help stop the spread.
It is believed the symptoms of ash dieback can only be spotted in summer; however, the Forestry Commission has produced this handy video that explains how it is still possible to spot the signs even in the winter months.
Identifying the disease in the winter may prevent the summertime spores from spreading. This can allow for management by dealing with affected trees when the disease is dormant.
If you suspect your ash tree has signs of ash dieback, it is vital to diagnose this quickly. Our qualified surveyors can inspect your tree and confirm if it is infected. If it is, they can also advise on the best course of action.
Call today on 023 8244 0473 to book an appointment.
