ASH DIEBACK
Chalara dieback of ash is a disease in ash trees caused by a fungus. causing leaf loss, crown dieback and bark lesions.
Are your Ash trees at risk? Scroll down to find out more in get in touch for more information.
What is Ash Dieback?
Commonly known as Chalara diesback of ash, it is a a serious disease of ash trees caused by a fungus call Hymenoscyphus. The disease affects trees of all ages and is spreading rapidly in Britain and Europe.
What are the symptoms of the disease?
Symptoms of Ash Dieback include:
- On leaves: Black blotches appear often at the leaf base and midrib. Affected leaves will wilt leading to leaf loss.
- On Stems: Small lens-shaped lesions or necrotic spots appear on the bar of stems and branches and enlarge to form perennial cankers. The infection may girdle and kill the stem. If the bark is peeled, the wood underneath has a brownish to grey discolouration which extends beyond the bark necrosis.
- On the Whole Tree: Affected tress show extensive dieback of shoots, twigs and branches. Trees often have prolific epicormic shoots.
How does it spread?
The fungus has several pathways of spread over long distances. Spreading can occur through movement of diseased ash plants and logs, or unsawn wood from infected trees. The fungus is also seed-borne plus may spread locally by wind.
Which trees are at risk of Ash Dieback?
Chalara dieback of ash if particularly destructive of common or European ash (Fraxinus Excelsior), including its Pendula ornamental variety. Narrow-leaved ash (Fraxinus Angustifiloia) is also suspectible, and both species have been affected in the UK. It has not been reported to infrect any non-ash species.
What can be done about this?
Once a tree is infected unfortunately the disease is usually fatal, either directly, or indirectly by weakening the tree to the point where it succumbs more readily to attacks by other pests or pathogens.
If you think you have Chalara Ash Dieback symptoms get in touch with us for more advice on how to manage the disease and reduce further spreading.
THINK YOUR ASH TREES ARE AFFECTED?
Get in touch with us today for more advice regarding the suspected Ash Dieback. Our team are experienced in the management of this disease and can discuss the best options to manage the disease and reduce further spreading.