Blackened leaves on an ash tree are a common symptom often associated with the presence of Ash Dieback disease.
Understanding Ash Dieback
Ash Dieback, also known as Hymenoscyphus fraxineus (formerly Chalara fraxinea), is a serious fungal disease affecting ash trees (Fraxinus species). It can cause significant damage and, in many cases, lead to the death of the tree.
Key Symptoms of Ash Dieback
One of the first signs of Ash Dieback you might notice involves the foliage and twigs of the tree.
According to the reference:
- Often you may notice dead and blackened leaves hanging amongst the live foliage.
- The bark of live shoots and twigs turn darker, often with a purple tinge.
- The disease will cause diamond shaped lesions where older twigs and branches join the stem or trunk.
These symptoms indicate the fungus is affecting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients, leading to the death of the affected parts, including the leaves.
Visualizing the Symptoms
To help identify if Ash Dieback might be the cause of your tree's blackened leaves, consider these common signs:
- Foliage: Look for leaves that appear wilted, shriveled, and distinctly black, often remaining on the tree even after healthy leaves have fallen. These blackened leaves can appear alongside greener, live leaves.
- Twigs and Branches: Examine younger shoots and twigs. Their bark might show discoloration, turning darker or exhibiting a purple hue.
- Lesions: On larger twigs and branches, particularly where they meet the main stem or trunk, look for distinctive diamond-shaped areas where the bark is discolored or sunken.
While blackened leaves are a strong indicator, observing multiple symptoms together increases the likelihood that Ash Dieback is affecting your tree.
