How to Prevent Ash Dieback: A Guide by Marsh Tree Care Ltd.
Ash trees are a beautiful part of our British countryside, but they’re under serious threat from a fast-spreading fungal disease known as ash dieback. Caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, it’s already devastated millions of trees across the UK. Sadly, our native ash trees don’t have a natural defence against it.
At Marsh Tree Care Ltd., we understand how worrying this can be for landowners, homeowners and woodland managers. While there’s currently no cure for ash dieback, there are ways you can slow its spread, manage its impact, and help protect your trees and local landscape.
What Is Ash Dieback?
Ash dieback is a fungal infection that affects trees of all ages. The fungus grows inside the tree and gradually blocks its ability to draw up water, causing the tree to die over time. The damage builds year after year, and while some trees can resist it for a while, most will eventually succumb.
Common symptoms include:
- Wilting, dark patches or early shedding of leaves
- Dead or dying branches in the crown
- Diamond-shaped, dark brown lesions where branches meet the trunk
- Discolouration of the inner bark
- Epicormic growth (shoots growing low down on the trunk)
If you’ve spotted any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Early action can make a big difference.
Can You Prevent Ash Dieback?
There’s no quick fix, but you can take steps to reduce the spread and support your ash trees. Here’s how.
1. Inspect Your Trees Regularly
Early detection is key. Check your ash trees during the growing season (spring to early autumn) for any changes. Keep a note of symptoms so you can track the progression.
Look out for:
- Dieback in the canopy
- Early leaf loss or blackened leaf stalks
- Bark lesions or unusual growths
2. Prune with Care
If only small areas of the tree are affected, selective pruning can help. Always sterilise tools between cuts and avoid over-pruning, which can weaken the tree further. It’s best to get expert advice. We offer professional crown thinning and pruning to help maintain tree health and safety.
3. Dispose of Infected Material Responsibly
Fungal spores can survive on fallen leaves and branches, so never leave infected material on the ground. Ideally:
- Burn debris on-site (if allowed)
- Compost well away from other trees
- Avoid chipping infected wood near healthy trees
- Clean tools and machinery after use
4. Avoid Planting New Ash Trees
To help limit the long-term impact, avoid planting more ash trees, especially in high-risk areas. Instead, consider a diverse mix of native species like oak, rowan or birch to support wildlife and woodland resilience.
5. Look Out for Naturally Resistant Trees
Some ash trees are showing signs of resilience. These rare individuals could help future recovery. If you spot a healthy ash among infected ones:
- Leave it in place
- Monitor it closely
- Report it to local tree health authorities
6. Get Expert Support
Ash dieback can be unpredictable, and every tree is different. If you’re unsure about the condition of your ash trees, call in the professionals. At Marsh Tree Care Ltd., we’ve supported hundreds of landowners with practical, respectful and sustainable ash dieback management, from pruning to full removal if necessary.
Is Tree Removal Always Needed?
Not always. We’ll only recommend felling if:
- The tree poses a safety risk
- It’s too far gone to recover
- It threatens people or property
Otherwise, we’ll help you explore less invasive options like regular monitoring and targeted pruning.
Worried About Ash Dieback?
If you’re concerned about the health of your ash trees, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We offer free quotes and honest advice tailored to your land and trees.
Contact Marsh Tree Care Ltd. today for:
- Tree health assessments
- Pruning and tree management
- Professional, safe tree removal
We’re here to help you protect what matters, one tree at a time.