Ash Tree Concerns: Chalara Dieback, Wind Risk, Pruning Costs

Three Questions on a Large Ash: Disease, Stability, Pruning

Your 60–70 ft ash in the UK faces Chalara fraxinea (ash dieback), a deadly fungus from Japan via Poland. No cure yet; see Forestry Commission for updates.

Wind Stability

Depends on soil, surroundings, and tree health. A healthy ash in unchanged conditions withstands normal winds. New exposure (cleared neighbors), shallow soil, or root rot increase risk.

Pruning Advice

• Hire a pro who follows ANSI A300—no topping, no lion’s tailing.
• Crown thinning/reduction if needed, by climbers (no spikes/spurs—they wound the trunk).
• Cost varies: access, brush removal, chipping distance, crew method (bucket vs. climb).

Monitor for Chalara symptoms (leaf loss, lesions). Stay informed via Forestry Commission.