To be able to carry out arboricultural work in a diverse environment such as a leafy English town like Epsom, an area we’re especially popular in, our tree surgeons have to have a deep and encyclopaedic knowledge of local trees. This goes well beyond simply identifying them, and into things like the issues they commonly suffer, such as the various pests and diseases that can prove a problem if left unattended to, and how they react to typical procedures like crown lifting or reduction.
In this latest blog post, we’ve looked to run over some common tree species you might encounter in your back garden, or when out for a walk in Epsom Town Forest… For advice on anything relating to arboriculture, or to get a quote for one of the services detailed on our website, why not give us a call on 020 8668 8362 or 07764 420 559?
Common Ash – As its name suggests, this is one of the most common trees you’ll find out on your travels about Epsom. It grows quickly and is a very useful wood when used in production. It has lance shaped leaflets with toothy edges. Common issues tree surgeons regularly find affecting the common ash includes deadly ash dieback, which has swept across much of our country and is a major risk to population. It’s caused by a fungus named Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, and leads to leaf loss and crown die back.
Silver Birch – Its distinctive off-white to grey colouring make it a beloved English tree, and that’s not to mention its drooping branches and impressive height when fully mature. Birch dieback often effects first generation birch trees, while second generation trees are less likely to be struck by it. The two fungi that cause birch dieback are known as Marssonina betulae and Anisogramma virgultorum. Our tree surgeons love working on this beautiful species, so contact us should you have one on an Epsom property you’re looking to keep in tip top health.
Sessile Oak – There are a fair few types of oak you might find growing around Epsom, but this is a common variety you’ll find on woodland walks. Its wood is used for production and construction in a wide range of industries, and the tree itself can be identified via its unique leaves and stalk-less acorns. Tree surgeons often find sessile oaks afflicted with acute and chronic oak decline, which caused serious population issues back in the 1920s, and still leads to worries today. Another common problem is the oak processionary moth, a non-native pest that’s been found in London, Surrey and Berkshire.