What’s The Best Time to Prune an Ash Tree?

Late October to early March.

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Expert insight into the best time to prune an ash tree; the advantages of ash tree pruning, and how to avoid the risk of spreading disease and harming the tree.

The ash tree is native to the UK and is known for its slender, elegant appearance and its desire to grow in groups to form a shady, domed canopy. Ash trees can live to a ripe old age of 400 years and benefit greatly from regular coppicing which encourages their growth and extended lifespan.

Why prune an ash tree?

Ash tree pruning is important to assist the tree in growing healthily. Only with the correct pruning methods will the ash tree develop a strong growth, and the process will also allow for the circulation of air and sunlight amongst the branches of the trees, which is effective in helping to reduce certain diseases.

The ash tree is, unfortunately, prone to disease, pests and borers which means that special attention is essential. Regular removal of diseased, broken or dead branches will keep the tree at its optimum health and pruning will aid central leader growth which will provide the tree with a strong core. Furthermore, pruning also prevents pests and other elements that can cause decay from infecting the tree as a whole.

Pruning an ash tree or in particular a group of ash trees will have a positive aesthetic effect on the landscape too, not to mention how it makes the tree safer. It is also an investment for the future, as good pruning early on in the tree’s life will result in a lessened need for pruning once the tree is mature.

So, all this considered, when is the best time to prune an ash tree?

When is the best time to prune an ash tree?

Whilst it really depends on the reason for pruning, ash trees are ideally trimmed back during the late dormant season, i.e. late in the winter before the new spring growth starts to appear. The dormant season for a tree runs from late October to early March.

Pruning a tree creates a wound, and these are best left for the shortest amount of time possible before the new growth starts and the healing process can begin.

If however you are seeking to remove broken, dead or diseased branches then this can be done at any time of the year and indeed should be done as soon as any hazardous branches are spotted. It is the removal of live branches for, to example, let light and air circulate, that must wait until winter.

The most common types of tree pruning for the ash tree are crown reduction, crown lifting and crown thinning.

Other Considerations

When you are looking for problem branches in your ash tree, be sure to be on the lookout for an S-shaped pattern. This indicates the presence of the Emerald Ash wood-boring beetle which is very serious as this creature has the ability to kill a tree. Additionally you should be aware of branches that are bare of leaves as this could be a sign of anthracnose. If you spot any brown areas on the leaves or cankers on the branches then you should instigate the pruning process as soon as possible, preferably taking urgent advice from a qualified tree surgeon.

Tree Preservation Orders

No tree work should be undertaken without first checking for the presence of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). If there is one, then permission will be required for the works, and this can take up to eight weeks to materialise.  Similarly, if the tree is situated in a conservation area, then again permission will be required for any works.

Pruning an ash tree can be dangerous. Ash trees grow to a considerable stature which means experience and expertise in working at height is crucial in order to undertake the task safely.

Using a qualified tree surgeon with the right certifications and adequate insurance is the wisest advice you can follow. They will advise on the most appropriate timing for your ash tree pruning and will also be able to identify any symptoms of disease or decay and then advise you on what action needs to be taken.

The importance of ash tree pruning expertise

No matter what species of tree you are looking to prune, you really should not proceed unless you possess a good understanding of tree biology. Improper pruning can lead to lasting damage and may even shorten the lifespan of the tree. Expert pruning on the other hand can lead to prolonged good tree health and structure and a much enhanced aesthetic appeal.

If you have an ash tree on your land that needs pruning, why not talk to T.H. Tree Services? As fully qualified and highly experienced tree surgeons, we are able to offer extensive knowhow when it comes to ash tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, give us a call on 01268 642814 or get in touch here.