Ash Tree Identification
Ash Tree Identification
Ash leaves are compound, meaning that each leaf is made up of 5 to 11 leaflets on either side of a central stem
As the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) continues to spread throughout the region, it’s critical to know whether or not those beautiful trees in your yard are ash trees.
If they are, you may want to consider a preventive treatment to help save them from EAB infestation and eventual death.
At this point, doing nothing is not an option. All ash trees in New Jersey, as well as eastern Pennsylvania, will eventually be attacked and killed by EAB – unless they’ve been treated to ward off the beetles.
>> For details on what to do, visit our page about EAB treatment options.
How To Tell If You Have Ash Trees On Your Property
Mature ash trees have a distinctive diamond pattern in the bark
- Ash trees have opposite branches and buds, not staggered or alternate. Look for leaves and twigs that are attached to the stem or branch directly across from each other.
- The leaves are compound, made up of 5-11 leaflets. Instead of a single leaf attached to a branch, look for a stem that has 5 to 11 leaves arranged opposite each other (see the picture).
- While the bark on younger trees tends to be smooth and gray, mature trees have more of a diamond pattern of ridges and furrows.
For further help in identifying ash trees, try this excellent fact sheet put out by Michigan State University.
Still Not Sure?
Call us at 908-309-6611. We’re happy to have one of our arborists come out to check on your trees, tell you what species they are, and see whether there are any signs of Emerald Ash Borers in your ash trees. The tree inspection is complimentary.
