Our team were called out to an emergency on Sunday 21st April in Pembrokeshire, due to a fallen tree that had collapsed overnight from Ash Dieback. The team were called out and safely managed to remove the tree and debris and free the cars from underneath.
What is Ash Dieback?
Ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is a fungus which originated in Asia. The fungus overwinters in leaf litter on the ground, particularly on ash leaf stalks. It produces small white fruiting bodies between July and October which release spores into the surrounding atmosphere.
These spores can blow tens of miles away. They land on leaves, stick to and then penetrate into the leaf and beyond. The fungus then grows inside the tree, eventually blocking its water transport systems, causing it to die.
The tree can fight back, but year-on-year infections will eventually kill it.
What are the signs to look out for?
When looking for Ash Dieback, there are several signs and symptoms that you should look out, including:
- Leaves develop dark patches in the summer.
- Leaves will start to wilt and discolor to black. Leaves might shed early.
- Dieback of the shoots and leaves is visible in the summer.
- Lesions develop where branches meet the trunk. These are often diamond-shaped and dark brown.
- Inner bark looks brownish-grey under the lesions.
- New growth from previously dormant buds further down the trunk. This is known as epicormic growth and is a common response to stress in trees.
If you are unsure whether your Ash tree is showing signs of Ash Dieback, get in touch with the experts and we’ll be happy to assist you.
