Green Ash as a Front Yard Shade Tree for Southwestern Ontario

Tree Selection: Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)

For a west-facing front yard replacing a peach tree, Green Ash offers:

• High branching (street tree form) – won't block kitchen window views.
• Compact, upright oval shape – 50 ft tall, 30 ft spread.
• Filtered shade – good for hostas beneath.
• Seedless cultivars available (e.g., 'Patmore', 'Summit') – no messy fruit.
• Hardy to Zone 3 – thrives in southwestern Ontario.

Considerations

• Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) risk – check local status; treat preventively if present.
• Surface roots with age – mulch ring to mower line.
• Fall color: yellow; not showy but clean.

Alternatives if EAB Is Active

• Honeylocust 'Skyline' – filtered shade, thornless, podless.
• Japanese Zelkova – vase shape, exfoliating bark, resistant.
• Red Maple 'Armstrong' – narrow, red fall color.

Green Ash remains a solid choice where EAB is managed. Confirm local recommendations with your nursery or extension.