Ash Tree Removal in Southeast Wisconsin

Ash trees are among the most common tree types in Wisconsin, with an estimated 770 million trees across the state. Large ash trees grow tall and thick and are generally very sturdy. Historically this has made ash a popular tree type for Wisconsin homes, parks and businesses thanks to the protection they provide from the sun and rain. Prior to 2002 these trees faced few threats from disease or infestations, but have become a target of the emerald ash borer in the decades since.

IDENTIFYING WISCONSIN ASH TREES

Ash trees grow slower than many other types of large trees, meaning their wood is harder and their trucks can be quite thick. Wisconsin ash trees can be identified through several shared characteristics:

• An opposite branching pattern. New growth occurs symmetrically on opposite sides of the main branches, rather than alternating.
• A compound leaf structure. Depending on the specific species of ash tree, each leaf will be composed of 5-11 leaflets which make up the larger structure of the leaf.
• A rough, diamond-shaped bark pattern and oblong, clustered seeds.

Wisconsin's 6 Most Common Ash Tree Diseases

Ash Anthracnose Disease

Large black or tan patches on leaves, causing deformities. Small purple-to-brown spots on leaves. Complete defoliation in severe cases.

Ash Yellows

Smaller, thinner, and lighter green leaves. Branches growing in tufts. Slower growth rate compared to healthy trees.

Verticillium Wilt

Yellowing, browning, and drying of leaf edges. Sudden wilting on branches. Discolored streaks under bark on drooping branches.

Ash Rust

Small yellow or yellow-orange spots on upper leaf surfaces. Bright orange-yellow clusters of spore-producing structures underneath leaves. Leaf distortion and twig swellings.

Powdery Mildew

White powdery appearance on leaf surfaces, stems, shoot tips, blossoms, and buds. Leaf yellowing, browning, distortion, or premature drop.

Mycosphaerella Leaf Spot

Large, irregular leaf spots turning from light green to brown with yellow surrounding them (M. fraxinicola). Many small, yellow to brown spots (M. effigurata). Premature defoliation in severe cases.

HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR ASH TREE IS DEAD OR DAMAGED

If your ash tree did not produce leaves in the spring like normal, it may be a sign that the tree is dead or stressed. Stress can come from disease and infestations, and Wisconsin ash trees can sometimes bounce back. If the tree is in fact dead, it is important to have it removed professionally so future rot and damage do not cause it to become a safety hazard. CutNGo arborists are ISA-certified and are capable of identifying which ash trees are salvageable and which must come down.

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