Posted: Tuesday 6 November 2012 by Pippa Greenwood The spread of
chalara dieback of ash trees is such a tragedy. But I’m glad
that this potentially devastating infection is finally being
taken seriously. The spread of chalara dieback of ash trees,
which has recently hit the headlines, is such a tragedy. But I’m
glad that this potentially devastating infection is finally
being taken seriously and an import ban has now been put in
place. As I look out onto a lovely piece of Hampshire hillside,
largely covered with oak, beech and ash, it makes me want to
scream. What will it look like in a year or two? As far as we
know, the infection isn’t here right now, but perhaps it’s still
in its early stages and we’re simply not aware of it yet. With
an estimated 30 per cent or more of our native tree cover said
to be ash (Fraxinus excelsior), the Chalara fraxinea fungus
really does have the potential to alter our landscape. The
‘Pendula’ form, more commonly grown as a garden tree, is also
susceptible, so gardens too are