Looks can be deceptive. On the face of it, these trees looked fairly healthy, but internally, Ash dieback disease had taken hold and the trees had to be felled for public safety.
What is Ash dieback?
Ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is a fungus from Asia that was introduced to Europe about 30 yrs ago and has devastated the European ash (Fraxinus excelsior). Our native ash species has no natural defence against it. The fungus grows inside the tree, eventually blocking its water transport systems, causing it to die.
UK expected to lose 80% of ash trees to the disease
It is predicted that the UK will lose around 80% of its ash trees in total, which will have a devastating impact on the landscape and the biodiversity of our woodlands, as well as a major loss in connections between habitats as we lose hedges and individual trees outside of woods. It's a serious problem that is expected to cost the UK economy over £15billion in coming years.
For more information on Ash dieback and to support a fund to fight against tree disease visit the Woodland Trust's website here.
Get in touch
LJX is one of Scotland’s leading independent owner-managed providers of experienced arboricultural services to domestic and commercial clients across Glasgow and Edinburgh. For advice on tree disease or tree care, please get in touch.
