White Ash Tree Decline After Bark Damage: No Cure, Monitor for Borers

Why the Tree Is Dying

Mechanical removal of bark severs the phloem, preventing photosynthates from reaching roots. Roots die, stored energy in limbs depletes, and branches succumb over years.

Management

• Do not paint the wound; leave it exposed to air for monitoring.
• Watch for borer signs: pinholes, sawdust, sap ooze. Spray damaged area with borer insecticide if detected.
• The undamaged side of the tree may survive indefinitely unless secondary issues arise.