Ash dieback is a lethal disease specifically affecting Ash trees.

Since its first detection in the UK in 2012, we have continued to see an increase in cases in both young and mature trees. It is estimated that Ash dieback will kill 80% of the species (Source: Woodland Trust) and have a significant impact on the landscape and the vast number of species that rely on Ash.

It's essential to remove affected trees for safety reasons and to help prevent the disease's spread. More importantly, we must identify potentially tolerant Ash to encourage the growth of healthy trees in the future.

If left to develop, the disease will weaken the tree to such an extent that it will pose a significant risk to people, wildlife and buildings in its vicinity. Even a relatively young tree can cause serious damage if it loses branches or falls entirely. To help our clients manage the effects of Ash dieback on their property, we offer free 'Tree Health Assessments' across Cornwall. Contact us to arrange your free assessment today.

How can you tell if your Ash tree has Ash dieback?

You may have noticed some changes in your Ash trees as we move between seasons. Symptoms affect the leaves, bark and new growth.

Here’s what to look out for:

• You may notice dark patches on the tree’s leaves in the summer. The effects of dieback on shoots and leaves are often more obvious in the summer months.

• Towards the end of summer, moving into autumn, the leaves will turn black, wilt and may even shed earlier than expected.

• Have a look at the point where branches meet the trunk, if you identify any dark brown lesions (sometimes diamond-shaped), this is most likely a symptom of Dieback. Beneath these lesions, the inner bark may appear brownish-grey.

• You may spot epicormic growth further down the trunk sprouting from previously dormant buds. This type of growth is a clear sign of a tree under stress.

What should I do if I think my tree has Ash dieback?

If you suspect that one or more of your trees may have Ash dieback, call us to arrange a free ‘Tree Health Assessment’. As a Level 3 Master Crafstman Arborist, Toby is qualified to formally diagnose Ash dieback, provide advice on how to best deal with the tree and carry out the necessary work in line with guidelines supplied by the Forestry Commission.

What is Ash dieback?

“Ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is a fungus which originated in Asia. It doesn’t cause much damage on its native hosts of the Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica) and the Chinese ash (Fraxinus chinensis) in its native range. However, its introduction to Europe about 30 years ago has devastated the European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) because our native ash species did not evolve with the fungus and this means it has no natural defence against it.” (Source: The Woodland Trust)

Are any Ash trees immune to Ash dieback?

According to the Woodland Trust, some findings estimate that 1-5% of trees show some tolerance to the disease but none have yet demonstrated immunity. There is hope that the population could recover over time and investigations are being made into how this might be possible.

How you can help minimise the spread of the disease and prevent infected trees from becoming potentially dangerous to those who live or work near them.

• Firstly, have your trees formally diagnosed by booking a ‘Tree Health Assessment’ with us.

• Report the case to Forest Research’s TreeAlert.

• Ensure tree work is carried out by a fully trained, qualified and insured professional Arborist.

• Collect leaf matter from the grounds surrounding Ash trees and either burn, bury or deep compost the leaves.

• Plant new trees where suitable to do so focusing on planting a mix of healthy native species and only planting trees sourced and grown in the UK and Ireland. We can advise on the best trees to plant on your property.

• Clean your shoes before and after visiting a wood. (Source: The Woodland Trust)

• Avoid taking cuttings or plant material from the countryside. (Source: The Woodland Trust)

• Wash your car or bike wheels to remove mud or plant matter. (Source: The Woodland Trust)