Ash dieback causes leaf loss and crown dieback. Image courtesy of the Forestry Commission ©
The Ash tree disease Chalara dieback has been found in seven newly planted sites across Wales, including Wentwood and Wye Valley areas, North Wales and Carmarthenshire.
Private owners in the Cardiff area are being encouraged to check their Ash trees for the disease which causes leaf loss and crown dieback and report to the Chalara helpline (see sidebar).
How to identify the disease[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sI7hgFZ-4g&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
A Cardiff Council spokesman said, “Inspections have been carried out across a range of Ash trees throughout the city and no symptoms that indicate Ash dieback have been found. The Forestry Commission has also inspected trees in Plymouth Great Woods with no positive identifications.”
The Council is remaining alert and will continue carrying out inspections and liaising with the relevant authorities.