Ash Tree Removal in Richmond Hill

Emerald Ash Borer in Richmond Hill

The emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that has killed huge numbers of ash trees across southern Ontario, including York Region. Its larvae tunnel under the bark and cut off the tree’s supply of water and nutrients. Once an ash is heavily infested, it usually dies within a few years.

Signs Your Ash Tree Is Affected

• Thinning at the top of the crown, with bare branches up high.
• Small D-shaped exit holes in the bark.
• Bark splitting to show winding, S-shaped tunnels underneath.
• Woodpecker damage, as birds strip the bark to get at the larvae.
• Clusters of new shoots sprouting low on the trunk.

Why Dead Ash Should Come Down Sooner

Ash killed by the borer tends to get dry and brittle quickly. Branches snap, and the tree becomes harder and riskier to take down the longer it stands. If a dead ash is near your house, driveway or a neighbour’s yard, it’s worth dealing with sooner.

Is It Definitely an Ash?

Ash trees have leaves made of several leaflets arranged in pairs, and branches that grow directly opposite each other. Mature bark has a diamond-shaped pattern. If you’re not sure, we’ll tell you when we come out for the free quote.

How We Remove Ash Trees

Like any dead tree, we take it down in sections and lower the pieces carefully. Then we haul the wood away, rake up and sweep. We can grind the stump on the same visit if you like. Check with the City of Richmond Hill about any permit rules before removal. See permits.