Honey Ash Tree Top Dieback: Signs of Internal Decay

Recurring Top Dieback in Honey Ash Indicates Internal Decay

When the same upper branches die back year after year, especially with webbing and bird activity, the cause is often internal wood decay rather than a foliar pest.

Diagnostic Steps

• Check for green tissue under bark on affected twigs (scratch test).
• Look for loose bark, conks, or cavities on the trunk.
• Assess whether wind or ice damage initiated the problem.

Management

No treatment reverses advanced decay. Maintain vigor with proper watering and fertilization. Consult an arborist for structural risk assessment; removal may be necessary if the tree becomes hazardous.