Copper Beech and Weeping Ash help

[PaddyFF]

I have been sent these photos by a client who is concerned about his trees. As this is starting to get to the realms of my knowledge I wanted some advice on what to recommend. The client doesn't want to cut the trees down, if anything he wants to know if anything can be done to retain them for longer. They are in a large garden, the beech over hangs a private lane to the neighbours property.

 

Photos were taken at the end of August.

 

The Copper Beech is clearly suffering at its graft point and this summer had reduced leaf coverage on the whole crown.

 

The Weeping Ash is completely hollow, one photo is taken looking into tree from a large old wound. There is dieback in the crown and the stem is dead on one side.

 

Any help and advice would be great appreciated.

[MATTMOSS]

They are both obviously in decline, maybe a good layer of mulch inside the drip line may improve conditions for the roots.

Tell the neighbour not to drive past when it's windy.

[PaddyFF]

Thanks mate. Will advise on the mulch.

 

Do you know what the fungi is on the Beech? Would a reduction/thin be a good idea to reduce sail area on the Beech?

[MATTMOSS]

Thanks mate. Will advise on the mulch.

 

Do you know what the fungi is on the Beech? Would a reduction/thin be a good idea to reduce sail area on the Beech?

 

Looks like some sort of Ganoderma, sure theres people on here will give you more of a positive Id.

In my experience reduction would probably reduce the sail however at the same time cause the tree more stress and speed up the decline.

Personally if the client wants to retain it as long as possible I wouldn't do any pruning unless it was likley to cause harm to someone or property.