The ecological role of ash

The ecological role of ash

Ash is valuable not because it supports the most species—in Europe, oak is usually the most abundant tree in terms of the total number of associated organisms. Ash's uniqueness lies elsewhere.

Rapid mineral turnover

Ash leaves:

decompose relatively quickly;

return calcium and other elements to the top layer of soil;

do not form such a dense acidic litter as some conifers and beech;

support earthworms, bacteria and active soil fauna.

Light crown

Ash trees retain more light than dense beech or hornbeam canopies. Therefore, ash forests are capable of supporting a rich herbaceous layer.

Formation of a special forest community

Modern research considers the European ash asfunctional key type: its disappearance changes the illumination, the circulation of substances and the composition of vegetation, even when the vacated space is occupied by other trees. (PMC)

Valuable wood

Ash wood combines:

high impact strength;

elasticity;

ability to bend;

relatively low tendency to split.

Therefore, it was traditionally used for handles, bows, wheels, furniture and sports equipment.

Main threats

Ash drying out

MushroomHymenoscyphus ashcauses massive dieback of European ash trees. It is particularly severely affectedTall ash; the problem also affects narrow-leaved ash. The disease damages leaves, shoots, branches and the base of the trunk. (Forest Research)

However, this doesn't mean all ash trees need to be removed. Some trees demonstrate increased resilience. To preserve the species, it's important to:

preserve healthy and slightly affected specimens;

collect seeds from resistant trees;

do not create pure ash monocultures;

do not cut down a tree just because it is infected, unless it poses a danger;

monitor the condition of old trees near roads and buildings.

Emerald ash borer

Common wagtailhas destroyed vast numbers of ash trees in North America and poses a growing threat to Europe. EPPO maintains a dedicated international monitoring network for the pest and continues to consider it a serious quarantine and forest protection risk in 2026.eppo.int)

No ash tree can be considered completely immune. Some Asian species, which have coexisted with the pest for longer, may be more resistant, but it's premature to introduce them everywhere as a ready-made solution.

A practical priority for Central Europe and Switzerland