Jump to content

Log in or register to remove this advert

  • 0

Can this Ash be saved?


aesmith
 Share

Question

Hi,

This tree originally had three main stems, one going straight up,  one to the North running near vertical with little branching until the top, and the third branch to the South where it's not shaded by anything is more spread out.   A few years ago the central stem broke off at around 30'.    Now last week the North stem failed where it branches from the main trunk.  That happened during strong winds but it looks as if it was rotten internally and I'm wondering if the tree can recover.  And if it can, would we be better cutting back the branch to the S to remove some of the weight on the joint?

44591257924_c4f95897ea_b.jpg

 

Here's the remaining tree after the severed branch was removed (visible in background) ..

30374581257_0057c5e7a7_b.jpg

 

And close up of the damage on the main trunk.  The split runs maybe 5 or 6 inches below the saw cut ...

45265598132_64aee3f3cc_b.jpg

 

Thanks, Tony S

Link to comment
Share on other sites

3 answers to this question

Recommended Posts

  • 0

The tree won't die but it presents a great opportunity for other lives - fungi, bacteria, insects and so on.  By all means reduce the south limb to reduce leverage but the tree overall is now a real habitat in the making.

Edited by nepia
  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Log in or register to remove this advert

  • 0

Theres no reason to presume the tree cant have a future....might not look the best balance wise and long term it may not survive the oncoming pressure from ash die back but in theory it will carry on for years as it is and as Nepia says will be a fantastic habitat veteran tree in the making

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 0

Great thanks, I'm all in favour of habitat.   Unless someone thinks otherwise I think what we'll do is reduce that S limb removing the lower parts, and we'll see how it goes.  The good news is that in it's location it's unlikely to do much damage if yet another part breaks off.  Would it be worth bevelling the saw cut so it's not horizontal?

 

Ash die back is an issue given so much of our cover is Ash, but growing up replacements will take a lot of time.  I might plant Beech in a suitable place near this one as an eventual successor, we'll be planting some in any case this winter.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

  •  

  • Featured Adverts

About

Arbtalk.co.uk is a hub for the arboriculture industry in the UK.  
If you're just starting out and you need business, equipment, tech or training support you're in the right place.  If you've done it, made it, got a van load of oily t-shirts and have decided to give something back by sharing your knowledge or wisdom,  then you're welcome too.
If you would like to contribute to making this industry more effective and safe then welcome.
Just like a living tree, it'll always be a work in progress.
Please have a look around, sign up, share and contribute the best you have.

See you inside.

The Arbtalk Team

Follow us

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.