About Trees Ltd – Kent Tree Surgeon

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Month: January 2024

UK’s 4th Largest Vineyard Signs Up For Tree Care Services

Posted on by About Trees

About Trees Ltd is happy to announce that the fourth largest vineyard in the country has signed up to our tree care services.

Eye catching figure that isn’t it? It doesn’t refer to About Trees Ltd being the 4th largest in the country in terms of tree care, although we do think big. It’s to do with our latest job on the estate of the 4th largest in the country in the world of grape growing.

It’s an honour…

…to be asked by a vineyard that is the 4th largest in the country to help them out with their tree management issues.

Like us all grapes enjoy the sun, and also like a lot of us they do not like the wind. Trees are planted as shelter belts to stop the wind from damaging the valuable crop. After time the trees on this site had become too tall and had started to affect the amount of sun hitting the fruit.

Time to fell the trees?

No, it’s time to retain the old Alders but time to manage them also. Alnus spp. are pretty hardy trees and will regenerate from fairly hard pruning. So that’s what we are doing. We are carefully reducing the height and spread of these trees so they can be of benefit to the crops and even the local wildlife.

When these people trust you…

…you know you are doing something right. If you have tree management issues that require our tree care services, then get in touch with About Trees Ltd today.

About Trees Ltd Tree Care Services Kent

Are we really raking it in?

Posted on by About Trees

It’s that time of year when all reputable tree companies should be fully booked and working hard – we are now booking into the new year. But are we really raking it in?

It’s true that having Arborists at your property is an expensive undertaking. You’re paying for experience, professionalism and trustworthy people on site.

What you are also playing for is;

Chipper £20k, Stump grinder £10k, Chainsaws x4 £3k, Climbing Kits £2k, associated tools £1k, Ladders £500 not to mention the truck itself 2 or 3 qualified and ticketed men on site, PPE for those men £1k, £10millon insurance, not forgetting trade accreditation’s.

This is pretty much the standard kit on most jobs, there’s no expensive rigging or really specialist equipment included in the above list.

These costs are substantial (there’s always on going repair costs also) and make up a great deal of the daily rate that you may be charged.

You can rest assured that your average tree company is not making the money you think they are.

What’s more crucial is that when you find quotes that are significantly cheaper than others they are cutting corners. Something is not right – maybe no insurance? Maybe not paying their workers a decent wage? Maybe using unsafe tools and machinery? Who knows.

Site clearance in Kent

Posted on by About Trees

We tend to stick to the high end domestic and commercial work normally, but just before Christmas we were asked to tender for some site clearance in Kent. If, I’m honest it was not my area of expertise but the job was interesting and I had a bit of a hunger to take it on board. Previously I had made a decent contact on a job that I had priced for Cambridge University for some other site clearance in Kent that they needed doing. I gave my man a call.

All the gear and lots of ideas

It was a good call to make, we tendered for the job and I planned to contract it out to a company with the workforce and machinery to undertake this contract. Guess what? We won the tender, I think we were up against 4 other firms. Clearly my client liked what they saw on the site meeting an subsequent emails and communications.

National Grid’s site clearance in Kent

We were working ultimately for National Grid, clearing an area of ground that measured approx. 0.66 Hectare in area. It was a slightly sloping site, mainly covered in low level scrub – hawthorn, blackthorn, willow and some taller ash trees. A full wildlife report was carried out by a Ecologist and an approach was adopted and Ok’d by the LA.

Why?

NG were clearing this area of rather unremarkable land to put in battery storage for peak demand times of electric consumption. These were batteries on an industrial scale. Think shipping containers and you’re nearly there. The tech was incredible.

The approach

After weeks of planning, H&S talks, paperwork, phone calls, email etc. we were good to go. A falling machine was sent in to clear low level scrub in order for groundhogs and security to be installed as well as welfare units. The the work proper could start. Excavators with timber grabs, chainsaw operators and stump grinding machines cleared the area within 2 weeks. Oh yeah the chipper was a tree surgeons’s dream. It was loaded by the exactors and filled an artic lorry in under 1 hour. That’s over 20tonne in one hour. What a beast.

 

What are we doing on the A2 in Faversham

Posted on by About Trees

About Trees Ltd. been asked by The Duchy of Cornwall to carry out some essential tree safety works along the boundary of Faversham Cricket ground and the A2 in Faversham.

This will be taking place on Friday 10th & over the weekend of the 11th & 12th February. Due to the nature of the roads, these were the only dates offered to us from Kent Highways. Our permit for the 2 days over the weekend from the hours of 07:00-19:00. We aim to start work on the Saturday at 08:00. Light levels will dictate the end of the working day, but it should not be later than 17:00 if all goes according to plan

Apologies in advance for the inconvenience that this will cause.

The work being carried out consists of the reduction in height of an ivy boundary roadside hedge to 1.5-2m AGL (above ground level). This mainly consists of sycamore and elder with some holly thrown in, and reaches from the boundary with the football pitch to the large evergreen oaks that are in the grounds of the cricket club just over half way along to the boundary with Reads Restaurant in Faversham. Beyond that point, the hedge is to remain untouched at the request of Ecologists. This is to increase overall stability of this roadside hedge but keep the valuable habitat that the hedge provides.

There are several self-seeded ash trees along this boundary also that, following independent tree safety audit and an Ecologists report are to be cut down / felled to ground level. It is essential that this work be carried out before the birds nesting season starts in March (Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981). The reason behind the felling of the ash trees, over and above everything else is safety, as many of the ash on this site have Ash Dieback. There are also several other species of tree along this boundary, sweet chestnut and oak to name a few, with these trees dead wood/branches along with low branches which may damage high sided vehicles are also to be removed/pruned.

We have worked with The Duchy at this site for many years and this is some overdue maintenance work, that the LA are aware of despite no protections in the form of TPO’s or TCA’s affect any of the works being carried out.

All of the conditions requested by Kent Highways, Swale BC and Environmental Health have been satisfied. Trees will be accessed using a MEWP which also has the correct permit in place for and will be used by IPAF operatives. All ground crew have the relevant qualifications needed for this work and will be covered by our Public Liability Ins. and Employers Liability Ins. Traffic Management (TM) permits are all correct and a dedicated TM company will be laying out the cones and light heads.

Full RAMS have been issued and About Trees Ltd. will work alongside the Method Statement provided to us by the Ecologist company that carried out the site survey.

`As a company we are proud of our connection with The Duchy of Cornwall and appreciate that they choose to use About Trees Ltd to carry out their tree care in Kent, these connections are built of honest advice, trust and the quality of our work. It enables us to thrive as a company, employ & train local people, something that isn’t quite so easy these days

My Neighbour’s Tree Overhangs My Garden. What Can I Do?

Posted on by About Trees

Living in close proximity to neighbours often comes with its fair share of challenges, one of which is dealing with trees that overhang your garden. As the director of About Trees Ltd, a reputable tree care company based in Kent, I have encountered numerous cases where homeowners have concerns about overhanging trees. In this blog, I will outline what UK law permits you to do in such a situation, along with specific considerations for trees in conservation areas or those protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). If you find yourself in this predicament, don’t hesitate to reach out to About Trees for expert assistance via our online booking platform Book a site visit

The Right to Cut Overhanging Branches:
 Under UK law, you are entitled to trim or cut any overhanging branches from your neighbour’s tree up to the boundary of your property. This is known as the “right to abate a nuisance.” However, it is essential to remember that you must not trespass onto your neighbour’s property to undertake this action. Make sure you stay within the boundaries of your own land when carrying out any pruning. Arisings (the stuff you cut) must be offered back to the tree owner this is a legal obligation as odd as it sounds.

Responsibility for Fallen Leaves, Fruits, or Debris:
 While it is frustrating to deal with leaves, fruits, or other debris falling into your garden from your neighbour’s tree, it is important to note that you do not have a legal right to demand your neighbour remove or prevent this from happening. Such natural occurrences are considered part of normal tree behaviour, and your neighbour is not held responsible for them.

Conservation Areas and Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs):
 If the tree in question is located within a conservation area or has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place, the regulations become more stringent. Trees in these areas are subject to additional protection, and you must seek permission from the local planning authority before carrying out any work. Even routine maintenance, such as pruning overhanging branches, may require consent. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to severe penalties. Therefore, it is crucial to consult professionals like About Trees who are well-versed in navigating the legal requirements of conservation areas and TPOs.

Mediation and Neighbourly Communication:
 In situations where the overhanging branches are causing significant disruption or damage to your property, it is advisable to engage in open and respectful communication with your neighbour. Explain your concerns and explore potential solutions together. Mediation can often be a constructive way to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement without resorting to legal action. If required, About Trees can act as mediators, leveraging our experience to help facilitate productive discussions.

Seeking Professional Advice: When dealing with overhanging trees, it is vital to consult an experienced arborist or tree care professional like About Trees. Our team of experts can assess the situation, provide guidance on the best course of action, and ensure that all legal requirements are met. Whether you need advice on pruning, tree removal, or understanding the implications of conservation areas and TPOs, our knowledgeable team is here to assist you.

Conclusion:
Living with a neighbour’s tree overhanging your garden can be challenging, but understanding your rights and obligations under UK law is crucial. Remember, you have the right to cut overhanging branches up to your property boundary, but you must respect the legal protections in place for trees in conservation areas or covered by Tree Preservation Orders. Engaging in open communication and seeking professional advice from experts like About Trees Ltd can help you navigate these situations effectively and ensure the health and harmony of your surroundings. Book an appointment now

Easter works

Posted on by About Trees

Whenever schools and colleges are closed for term breaks, we jump on in there. Tree surgery is a noisy and dangerous job, we always choose to carry out safety tree cutting at schools and colleges during the term breaks. It’s just so much easier, quicker and ultimately safer.

Tree surgery always attracts attention and having as few people around to worry about when carry out these dangerous tasks really helps.

This Easter term break will see a team at a large contract (over 7 days) in Broadstairs, at Broadstairs College and a few smaller contacts (under 2days) at schools in the Canterbury district. In Broadstairs will will be dealing with H&S work following a recent tree safety survey, this mainly involves the removal of dead wood and dead trees. There are a few trees to be felled that are causing damage to the infrastructure of the college and neighbouring buildings, namely a Monterey cypress and Tree of Heaven. Despite its rather lovely name, the Tree of Heaven is a bit of a brute, in fact it’s a pest. It’s very invasive and doesn’t let too much get in it’s way – even pavements and concrete

This time of year is tricky when approaching tree cutting, especially tree removal. We have to mindful of birds nesting season that runs from March- October. It is illegal for us to damage, move or disrupt active birds nests (Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981). As all decent companies we take this obligation very seriously indeed and will stop work (or not even start) if an active nest is found. Prior to works commencing a full check of each tree for nesting birds will be carried out. Only when the team leader on site is happy that there are no such issues will work commence.

In the Canterbury schools such as Swalecliffe School nr. Whitstable we new carrying out much smaller works, small dead wood removal, re-instating a lovely willow arch and pruning some trees for height access.

All of the schools we work at are repeat customers, that have an independent trees safety audit carried out annual and then ask us to do the re-active work.

How often should I water my new tree?

Posted on by About Trees

Introduction:
Welcome to About Trees Ltd., a leading tree care company serving Kent and the surrounding counties. I’m Wayne, the proud owner with 26 years of experience in the industry. Today, I’m here to address one of the most common questions we receive: “How often should I water my new tree?” Proper watering is crucial for the health and vitality of your trees, and in this blog post, I’ll provide you with valuable insights based on records from UK summers over the last 20 years. From understanding water requirements to avoiding common mistakes, let’s dive in and ensure your trees receive the best care possible.

Assessing Water Needs:

To determine how much water your trees require, consider their age, species, and the local climate. Newly planted trees need regular watering to establish a strong root system. The general guideline is to provide 20-30 litres of water per week during the first two years, divided into multiple watering sessions.

Species-Specific Water Requirements:
Different tree species have varying water needs. Some species, such as willows and poplars, have higher water requirements, while others, like pines and oaks, are more drought-tolerant. Research the specific water needs of your tree species to ensure adequate hydration.

Factors Affecting Water Demand:
 Several factors influence a tree’s demand for water. In the UK, where summer conditions can vary, it’s essential to consider weather patterns, soil type, tree age, and exposure to sunlight and wind. During hot and dry periods, trees require more frequent watering.

Watering Frequency:
 The frequency of watering depends on various factors, including weather conditions and the tree’s stage of growth. In general, newly planted trees need more frequent watering, especially during the first two years. Water deeply to encourage root growth, typically once or twice a week during dry periods.

Appropriate Watering Amount:
 The amount of water required depends on the tree’s size, age, and soil conditions. A good rule of thumb is to provide 15-20 litres of water per square meter of the tree’s root zone. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to ensure deep penetration into the soil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:
 When it comes to watering trees, some common mistakes can hinder their health. Over-watering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, fungal diseases, and oxygen deprivation. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves, wilting despite moist soil, and waterlogged soil. Conversely, under-watering can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and stunted growth.

Recognising Signs of Over-Watering and Under-Watering:
 An over-watered tree often displays symptoms such as yellowing leaves, soft and decaying roots, and a foul odor emanating from the soil. On the other hand, an under-watered tree may exhibit wilted leaves, dry and brittle branches, and leaf drop. Regularly monitor your trees for these signs to adjust your watering practices accordingly.

At About Trees Ltd., we take pride in our professionalism and expertise in tree care. As a testament to our commitment, we recently completed a planting contract for The Duchy of Cornwall, on The Queen’s Canopy emphasising our dedication to quality service and planting for future generations

Avoiding Common Watering Mistakes:

To ensure the health and longevity of your trees, it’s essential to avoid common watering mistakes that can harm their well-being. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

a) Shallow Watering: Superficially watering the tree’s surface without penetrating the root zone leads to shallow root growth. Instead, aim to water deeply and evenly to encourage deep root development.

b) Over-Watering: Excessive watering can be detrimental to trees, causing root rot, nutrient deficiencies, and other issues. Avoid the temptation to drown your trees by providing water only when necessary and monitoring the soil moisture level.

c) Inadequate Watering: On the other end of the spectrum, under-watering can result in stress and dehydration. Adequate hydration is particularly crucial during dry periods, so be attentive and adjust your watering routine accordingly.

d) Improper Watering Technique: Watering the foliage instead of the root zone is a common mistake. Direct the water at the base of the tree, where the roots are located, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the soil.

e) Inconsistent Watering Schedule: Trees benefit from a consistent watering schedule, especially during the establishment phase. Irregular watering can stress the tree and inhibit proper root development. Develop a watering routine and stick to it, adjusting as needed based on weather conditions.

f) Ignoring Natural Precipitation: It’s essential to consider natural rainfall when determining your watering schedule. If your area receives sufficient rainfall, you may not need to water as frequently. Monitor weather patterns and adjust accordingly to avoid over-watering.

By avoiding these common watering mistakes, you can provide your trees with the optimal hydration they need for healthy growth.

At About Trees Ltd., we are passionate about tree care and dedicated to ensuring the health and vitality of your trees. Trust us to provide reliable and professional services that will help your trees thrive for years to come.

Conclusion:
Proper watering is essential for the health and vitality of your new trees. By understanding their water requirements, considering species-specific needs, and being mindful of factors influencing water demand, you can ensure your trees thrive. Avoid common watering mistakes, monitor signs of over-watering and under-watering, and adjust your watering practices accordingly.

Remember, if you have any doubts or need assistance, the experienced team at About Trees Ltd. is here to help. Your trees deserve the best care, and we’re here to provide it.

For any further questions or to request a personalised quote for your tree care needs, feel free to visit our website and schedule a consultation with our experts. Simply click here to book your appointment: Book Your Appointment.

At About Trees Ltd., we value your trees and are committed to their well-being. Trust us to provide professional and reliable tree care services in Kent and the surrounding counties.

Remember, healthy trees start with proper watering. Let us help you ensure your new trees thrive for years to come.

#WeAreAboutTrees

The Importance of Tree Maintenance: An Investment in Safety and Value

Posted on by About Trees

The Importance of Tree Maintenance: An Investment in Safety and Value

Hello, I’m Wayne, the director of About Trees Ltd, a leading tree surgeon based in Kent.

For the past 26 years, I have devoted my career to the preservation, maintenance, and nurturing of trees. Over time, it has become clear to me that tree care is not just about environmental stewardship, but also about safeguarding people’s lives, property, and financial wellbeing.

Research into UK insurance claims highlights the significant role tree-related damages play in the claim statistics each year. According to the Financial Ombudsman Service [1], the causes of tree-related claims are diverse, but common reasons include storm damage, root-induced structural damage, and falling branches. The risks of neglecting tree care can, therefore, result in substantial financial and legal repercussions. Most of these issues are avoidable if you look after your trees.

Safety is Paramount

The leading insurance claims in the UK are often associated with weather-related incidents, particularly storm damage [2]. Trees that lack professional care pose a significant risk during severe weather conditions. Weak branches can break off, potentially causing severe damage to property and posing a threat to life. By instructing professional tree care services like ours, potential risks can be identified and mitigated in a timely manner, which in turn can protect you from costly insurance claims and more importantly, ensure the safety of your family, business, and the public.

Investing in Property Value

Well-maintained trees can significantly enhance the aesthetics and value of your property. According to the Arboricultural Association [3], a property surrounded by mature, healthy trees can see an overall value increase by as much as 20%. Conversely, properties hosting ill-maintained or dead trees can experience a substantial drop in appeal, and by extension, value. Regular professional tree care helps maintain or increase your property’s value, making it a worthwhile investment.

Understanding Legal Responsibility

In the UK, the responsibility of maintaining a tree lies with the owner, and failure to do so could potentially lead to legal action [4]. If a tree causes harm or damage, the owner can be held legally accountable. By ensuring regular professional tree care, you can stay ahead of potential issues, prevent legal complications and maintain peace of mind.

Promoting Tree Health

Regular tree care and inspections are crucial in detecting signs of disease or infestation at an early stage, enabling timely treatment to prevent further spread. This practice not only contributes to the longevity and health of your trees but also to the health of the wider local ecosystem.

Understanding the importance of regular, professional tree care is the first step. The next, and equally important step, is to act on it. At About Trees Ltd, we offer comprehensive tree care services driven by passion and deep industry experience. From regular inspections, pruning, removal of dangerous trees, to emergency callouts, we’re here to cater to all your tree care needs.

We invite you to take the first step towards ensuring the safety of your property and enhancing its value. Schedule a consultation with us today via our easy online booking system at About Trees Ltd Online Booking. Together, we can work towards preserving the health, safety, and beauty of your trees.

References

[1] Financial Ombudsman Service. (2023). Annual Review of Consumer Complaints. www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.

[2] Association of British Insurers. (2023). UK Insurance and Long-Term Savings Key Facts. www.abi.org.uk.

[3] Arboricultural Association. (2023). Trees and Property Values. www.trees.org.uk.

[4] UK Government. (2023). High Hedges, Trees and Overgrowth. www.gov.uk.

Ash Dieback Top Ten Tips

Posted on by About Trees

Just before Christmas, ProArb – a leading industry magazine asked me as a regular contributor to provide an article for their February issue. The premise was to provide a Ash Dieback Top Ten Tips for the practitioners of Arboriculture. I tried to take a slightly different approach and provide a more holistic approach and not fill my article with facts and figures.

What I came up with…. the article in full.

The published article is edited and I think better for it It can be viewed on the ProArb website.

Ash Dieback top ten tips

 

We are starting to see a substantial amount of Fraxinus excelsior – common ash with signs of Ash Dieback (ADB) and I think year on year for the foreseeable future it is likely to be more common place with us dealing with the trees, the owners and the risks both real and perceived. Some knowledge on the subject is vital in order for us as professionals to be able to offer advice that is correct, honest and suitable. It’s a serious situation and the appearance of Hymenoscyphus fraxineus fungus (used to be called Chalara fraxinea) in Britain has left the future of this widespread woodland, hedgerow and urban tree unknown let’s not forget Ash is said to be the 4th most common tree in Britain with an estimated population of between 90-120 million.

Currently there is NO cure for Hymenoscyphus fraxineus  (Chalara)

As professional Arborists we should be able to identify, and put in place management strategies to ensure our customers are well informed and have options that they can choose from. Yes of course we could all take the approach to fell ALL ash trees that show the signs of ADB – after all they’re going to die anyway aren’t they?

I’m pretty sure this ISN’T the way forward, there’s a degree of management of these trees that we can adopt. I think we can manage the risk and take a more holistic approach

Let’s have a look at my Top Ten Tips on how to manage Ash Dieback. It’s by no means exhaustive and for the main part is my interpretation on how we as a company work and maybe it reflects the industry as a whole. There’s a few fact included which may help get a handle on the significance of the disease also:

  • Positive identification. This has to be where we start off after all if we cannot ID it what recommendations can we offer. Springtime is an ideal time to spot the signs of ADB – wilting growth and possibly even bark lesions. You may see scars on the main stems; they are darker in colour to the surrounding wood and are often centered around a small shoot that has also died. With the exception of canker, lesions are general quite rare in ash and so this is the tell-tale sign. These scars may also be present on the smaller branches. Is the top of the tree dead? If so, this is characteristic of ADB – This happens because the fungus enters through the leaves in the crown of the tree. If the leaves have fallen there will be a distinctive dis-coloration on them, take a look at surrounding ash trees and the difference will be apparent – browning on the leaf stalk and discoloration on the underside of the leaf (yellow to brown).
  • Ok, so we are confident that we have positively ID’d ADB, what next? Well, we need to make a judgment call on the extent of the infection and assess risk this posses. I think the best current advice is from the Forestry Commission, they state: “Public safety is likely to be one the biggest management issues for owners of ash trees in woodlands, parks, roadsides etc. as the disease kills or weakens trees over the coming years. Trees in areas with high levels of public access need to be monitored carefully for risks to public safety, and some felling or pruning of dead or dying trees is advisable if risk assessments show they are a hazard.”
  • Not all of us are involved in the forestry side of operations, but we can learn something from the investigations that have been carried out by Defra and FC. We know that younger trees are most susceptible to ADB and are killed rapidly. This is useful knowledge for us when assessing an entire site and maybe can dictate to us timescales for when sites i.e. gardens, roadside boundaries etc. should be re-monitored.
  • Can we cure ADB? In short it seems the answer is no, but we can put in to place measures to help reduce the risk of further spread. This focuses efforts on reducing the level of spores present. As we know fungi for the most part like damp conditions, therefore if we can help increase light levels and airflow into densely planted areas at risk this could be beneficial. Maybe consider the selective and responsible thinning out of densely planted stands of trees. But by far and away the most effective option in reducing the spread of the spores and therefore disease is to encourage the owners, (or if they’re willing to pay you) to remove all ash leaf litter from around the trees in the autumn and winter to reduce the local source of spores the following summer.
  • Arisings – what do we do with them? We’ve just felled an ash tree that we diagnosed as having an ADB infection, what measures should we have in place so we don’t spread the spores and infect other trees nearby? Current advice seems to contradict itself a little, but my interpretation is; with regards to the removal of arisings, unless a Statutory Plant Health notice has been served the wood/timber can be removed. The leaf matter should not be removed from site. Several options are available, they are; composting, burial and incineration. Composting is the least preferred option because we are still not 100% sure in the effectiveness of this, burial works well but please be aware, that if we as contractors bury our arisings we are effectively land-filling and as such should have a permit to do so (a private person needs no such permit). I’d go with a cheap incinerator (dustbin type) and burn them.
  • Infected urban and veteran trees. OK, so I’ve lifted this directly from the Forestry Commission’s website, but I think this is most pertinent to us as responsible and professional Arbs.“ There should not be a presumption to fell these trees. Veteran trees in particular can provide many important environmental and social benefits, even when dead. Any work on a tree should be undertaken after a risk assessment, which should consider age, condition, the number of other trees in the locality and their species, the potential risk of further infection, and the danger to the public. The cost of taking or not taking action is also likely to be a factor in any final decision.” This advice is very similar to that given for hedgerow trees and those in rural situations. I guess what I’m trying to say that a dead tree is still a tree, it’s still valuable, it still provides a wealth of habitat and is still a wondrous thing to look at. I think a lot of us Arbs are guilty of regarding a dead tree as useless and something that has to be dealt with, usually by their removal – felling. My view is the driving force behind our decisions must be SAFETY and we should view trees as equally as valuable in terms of habitat etc. when dead.
  • Large mature trees in open surroundings such as street and parks etc. can survive and sometimes escape infection for many years. Urban situations help these trees out because the dark damp woodland environment is clearly not an issue, leaf matter is usually removed by the LA and secondary damage by bark beetles and basel infections which further stress trees are less likely in the urban environment.
  • A study based on the infections in Denmark show that there is a 1% resistance to ADB amongst ash trees; these trees show a less than 10% dieback in their Crowns. Using these figures for Britain this means there could be some 2 million disease resistant trees in the countryside – somewhere. That’s not many, so we really should refrain from becoming a little too chainsaw happy when around ash trees. A recent research paper dated from end of 2016 (Journal of Nature) states that after genome sequencing the British ash trees may be significantly more resistant than Danish trees, this is positive news, but lets all air on the side of caution for the time being.
  • How do we approach ADB? As a company we do not see this as a cash cow situation, I feel we need to move our industry on and strive to make the general population aware that we as Arborists are educated and trustworthy professional trades people. We will use our knowledge (which is by no means exhaustive) to obtain a suitable and safe outcome. This is our chance to build a relationship with clients, offer decent honest advice and realise they want someone they can trust. I’m not afraid to put my hands up to a client and say we need more qualified advice on this – to suggest a visit from a consultant would be a wise move.
  • Ultimately we are dealing with dead or dangerous trees – this is what we do, right? Climbing or working from a MEWP on a dead Ash tree from ADB carries the same risks as any other dead tree job. So as always take care and work safe.

Hope you waded through my Ash Dieback Top Ten Tips  OK. If you need help please take a look at https://www.abouttrees.co.uk/ash-dieback/

Ash Dieback disease in Kent

Posted on by About Trees

Chalara dieback of ash (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) Ash Dieback

Chalara dieback of ash, also known as Chalara or Ash Dieback, is a disease of ash trees caused by a fungus called Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. The fungus was previously called Chalara fraxinea, hence the name of the disease Ash Dieback.

Ash Dieback was first identified in Poland in 1992. Since then it has spread across Europe with Norway, the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark particularly affected. In Denmark it is reported that some 90% of their Ash trees may have been killed or been infected by the fungus which causes Ash Dieback. It has now been identified in areas of Kent. In my travels around Kent I notice Ash Dieback symptoms from Maidstone to Ashford and Dover.

Top ten tips for dealing with Ash dieback https://www.abouttrees.co.uk/ash-dieback-top-ten-tips/

In the UK evidence of Ash Dieback was found early in 2012 in tree nurseries and sites recently planted with young Ash trees. However it was not until October that the disease was found in established trees, in East Anglia. A recent survey has now revealed affected trees in Kent. It is widely accepted as being un-treatable and could potentially see the demise of 90million Ash trees.

Chalara causes leaf loss, crown dieback and bark lesions in affected trees. Once a tree is infected the disease is usually fatal, either directly, or indirectly by weakening the tree to the point where it succumbs more readily to attacks by other pests or pathogens, especially Armillaria fungi, or honey fungus.

The presence of Ash Dieback does not make an infected tree any more hazardous or likely to fail. It can take a number of years to kill a mature tree and there is small evidence of a natural resistance amongst the Ash population. We don’t yet know what the full impact of Chalara will be in Britain. Evidence from continental Europe suggests that older, mature ash trees can survive infection and continue to provide their landscape and wildlife benefits for some time.
It will be difficult over the winter months to assess whether trees have been infected as the most obvious visible symptoms affect the leaves. However, if you are concerned about your trees please email your name, address and a contact telephone number to ashdieback@abouttrees.co.uk our arborist will be able to visit the site and offer advice on current best practice for managing affected trees.

Additional information, including guidance on how to identify Ash dieback and how to formally report suspected outbreaks is available on the Forestry Commission website: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/chalara