Arborpedia

What is ash dieback?

Chalara ash dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus of Asian origin, poses a severe threat to the UK’s ash population. Rapidly fatal for young trees, it can gradually overcome mature specimens through prolonged exposure. With ash being a crucial native species, the disease jeopardises woodland biodiversity, ecology, and timber industries. Research focuses on assessing tolerance across global ash varieties to mitigate this formidable pathogen’s impact.

When to prune trees?

The BS3998/2010 covers planning, execution, and supervision to ensure work is conducted safely and efficiently while protecting trees. Key aspects include risk assessment, access/work positioning, pruning specifications, felling considerations, brushwood removal, and proper biosecurity measures. Adhering to this standard helps arborists preserve valuable tree assets while prioritising public and operator safety. Avoid pruning during drought, frost, or fungal sporulation periods. Unless addressing hazardous defects, minimal pruning is best to prevent photosynthesis reduction and tree stress.

What is involved in tree planting?

Suitable species are selected based on the site, ensuring adequate space for growth. Holes are dug at least twice as wide as the root spread and not too deep. The root flare is positioned at soil level and roots fanned out naturally before backfilling gaps with native soil. Staking may be required on windy sites. Young trees also need mulching, watering, and protection from grazing/vandalism to establish successfully.

What causes decay in trees?

Decay fungi are common tree pathogens that break down dead or dying wood. Entry points include wounds from pruning, storms or pests/diseases. Decay spreads through the sapwood via thread-like hyphae, compromising structural integrity. Mature or stressed trees are most at risk. Symptoms include staining, cavities, cracking, or hollow sounds when tapped. Decay assessment aids in detecting potential failures before they occur.

Arborpedia

What is ash dieback ?

Chalara ash dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus of Asian origin, poses a severe threat to the UK’s ash population. Rapidly fatal for young trees, it can gradually overcome mature specimens through prolonged exposure. With ash being a crucial native species, the disease jeopardises woodland biodiversity, ecology, and timber industries. Research focuses on assessing tolerance across global ash varieties to mitigate this formidable pathogen’s impact.

When to prune trees ?

The BS3998/2010 covers planning, execution, and supervision to ensure work is conducted safely and efficiently while protecting trees. Key aspects include risk assessment, access/work positioning, pruning specifications, felling considerations, brushwood removal, and proper biosecurity measures. Adhering to this standard helps arborists preserve valuable tree assets while prioritising public and operator safety. Avoid pruning during drought, frost, or fungal sporulation periods. Unless addressing hazardous defects, minimal pruning is best to prevent photosynthesis reduction and tree stress.

What is involved in tree planting ?

Suitable species are selected based on the site, ensuring adequate space for growth. Holes are dug at least twice as wide as the root spread and not too deep. The root flare is positioned at soil level and roots fanned out naturally before backfilling gaps with native soil. Staking may be required on windy sites. Young trees also need mulching, watering, and protection from grazing/vandalism to establish successfully.

What causes decay in trees ?

Decay fungi are common tree pathogens that break down dead or dying wood. Entry points include wounds from pruning, storms or pests/diseases. Decay spreads through the sapwood via thread-like hyphae, compromising structural integrity. Mature or stressed trees are most at risk. Symptoms include staining, cavities, cracking, or hollow sounds when tapped. Decay assessment aids in detecting potential failures before they occur.