How Can You Identify Ash Dieback and What Should You Do?

Ash trees are among the most common native species in the UK, found in woodlands, hedgerows, parks, and gardens. They are valued for their strength, quick growth, and their role in supporting biodiversity. Unfortunately, these trees are under severe threat from ash dieback, a destructive fungal disease that has spread across Britain at an alarming rate. Experts predict that up to 80% of the UK’s ash population could eventually be lost, making it one of the most devastating tree diseases in modern history.

For homeowners, councils, and land managers, the key is to understand how to identify ash dieback early and know what steps to take to protect both property and people. At Plymouth Tree Surgeon, we’ve helped many clients deal with ash dieback safely and responsibly, and in this article we’ll share everything you need to know.

What Exactly Is Ash Dieback?

Ash dieback (scientific name: Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) originated in Asia, where native ash species have a natural resistance. Unfortunately, European ash (Fraxinus excelsior), the most widespread ash in the UK, has little to no resistance.

The disease was first discovered in the UK in 2012, but scientists believe it had already arrived years earlier. Since then, it has spread across most of England and Wales, with Scotland and Northern Ireland also affected. Spores from the fungus are wind-borne, which means once an area is infected, it is almost impossible to prevent further spread.

The disease works by:

• Infecting leaves and spreading into shoots and branches.
• Blocking the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients.
• Weakening the structure, leaving the tree vulnerable to secondary pests (such as the emerald ash borer, though not yet in the UK).
• Eventually leading to death in the majority of cases.

How to Identify Ash Dieback: Key Symptoms

Spotting the early signs is critical, but symptoms can sometimes be confused with other issues such as drought stress or honey fungus. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Leaf Symptoms

• Leaves often develop dark brown patches in summer.
• Foliage may wilt, curl, and fall prematurely.
• Sometimes only part of the crown is affected at first.

2. Crown Dieback

• The crown begins to thin, especially at the top and outer edges.
• Bare twigs and branches are visible against the sky.
• This thinning worsens each year.

3. Lesions on Bark

• Diamond-shaped, sunken lesions appear, often where branches join the trunk.
• These lesions can girdle a branch, cutting off water flow.

4. Epicormic Growth

• New shoots may sprout from the trunk or lower branches as the tree struggles to survive.
• This may give a false impression of recovery, but it’s usually a stress response.

5. Dead or Weak Branches

• Branches become brittle and more prone to snapping.
• In public or garden areas, this poses a serious safety hazard.

Why Ash Dieback Is So Dangerous

Ash dieback is not just a problem for the tree itself, it has wider implications:

• Public Safety Risks: Dead or weakened branches can fall suddenly, especially in high winds. Diseased ash trees near roads, homes, schools, or footpaths are particularly hazardous.
• Complete Tree Failure: Once weakened, an ash tree may collapse entirely, risking injury, property damage, or blocked access.
• Ecological Impact: Ash trees support hundreds of wildlife species, from lichens and fungi to insects and nesting birds. Their loss disrupts ecosystems.
• Widespread Costs: Local authorities, landowners, and private homeowners face significant expenses in managing, removing, or replacing infected trees.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Ash Dieback?

Dealing with ash dieback requires a balance between safety, conservation, and practicality. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Monitor the Tree Regularly

Keep an eye on symptoms throughout the growing season. Take photographs to track changes over time, this can help professionals assess progression.

2. Seek Professional Advice

Contact a qualified tree surgeon like Plymouth Tree Surgeon. An expert can confirm whether it is ash dieback or another issue, and provide clear advice on whether the tree can be managed or needs removal.

3. Prioritise Risky Trees

If an infected tree is located close to:

• Roads or driveways
• Children’s play areas
• Buildings or fences
• Public rights of way

…it should be inspected urgently. Safety must come first.

4. Tree Removal (if required)

Unfortunately, there is no cure for ash dieback. Severely infected or unsafe trees usually need to be felled. This should only be done by professionals, as diseased ash becomes brittle and highly unpredictable during felling.

5. Consider Ecological Replacement

Planting alternative native species helps restore lost biodiversity. Good replacements include oak, hornbeam, hazel, or small-leaved lime. Your tree surgeon can advise on the best options for your soil and location.

6. Report Cases (where relevant)

If you manage woodland or multiple ash trees, it may be useful to record cases for environmental monitoring. The Forestry Commission provides guidance on reporting infected trees.

Can Ash Trees Survive Ash Dieback?

While the majority of infected ash trees eventually die, research has shown that a small percentage show tolerance to the disease. These resistant trees could play a vital role in future breeding programmes to restore ash populations.

If your tree shows only minor symptoms and is not posing a safety risk, your tree surgeon may recommend monitoring rather than removal. However, safety always takes priority in residential or roadside settings.

Why Choose Plymouth Tree Surgeon for Help with Ash Dieback?

Dealing with diseased trees can be dangerous without the right knowledge and equipment. At Plymouth Tree Surgeon, we provide:

• Expert diagnosis of tree health issues, including ash dieback.
• Safe and efficient removal of hazardous trees.
• Pruning and management of trees that can still be retained.
• Advice on replanting to support long-term biodiversity.
• Emergency response if a diseased ash tree poses immediate danger.

With years of experience serving homeowners, businesses, and councils across Plymouth, we ensure every job is carried out to the highest professional and safety standards.

Final Thoughts

Ash dieback is one of the most serious challenges facing the UK’s treescape. While the outlook for ash trees is troubling, landowners and homeowners can play an important role in managing the risks. By learning to identify symptoms early, seeking professional advice, and prioritising safety, you can protect your property, community, and the environment.

If you suspect ash dieback in your area, don’t leave it to chance. Contact Plymouth Tree Surgeon for a professional assessment and practical solutions.