05 Dec Ash Dieback in Perth, Perthshire & Fife – What Homeowners Need to Know
Ash Dieback in Perth, Perthshire & Fife – What Homeowners Need to Know (2025 Guide)
Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) continues to spread rapidly across Perth, Perthshire, Fife and the surrounding areas, affecting thousands of ash trees in gardens, woodlands, parks and roadside locations. As one of the most destructive tree diseases in the UK, Ash Dieback poses increasing risks to property owners, especially where declining trees stand near public spaces, roads or buildings.
This guide explains what the disease is, how to spot it, and what steps homeowners in Perth and Fife should take to manage it safely.
What Is Ash Dieback? – Understanding the Disease Affecting Ash Trees in Perth & Fife
Ash Dieback is a fungal disease that attacks the vascular system of ash trees, gradually causing crown thinning, dieback and structural weakness. The disease is now firmly established across Perthshire (including Scone, Bridge of Earn, Dunkeld, Coupar Angus, Kinross) and much of Fife (Glenrothes, Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline, Cupar).
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure. Most infected ash trees will continue to decline, and many will eventually require remedial work or safe removal.
Ash Dieback Symptoms – What Homeowners Should Look For
To help identify Ash Dieback early, check your ash trees for:
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Crown thinning or reduced leaf coverage
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Dead or dying upper branches
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Lesions where branches meet the stem
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Bark cracking and discolouration
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Epicormic growth on the trunk or base (a stress indicator)
If you see these symptoms on your property in Perth, Perthshire or Fife, a professional inspection is strongly recommended.
Why Ash Dieback Is a Major Risk in Perthshire & Fife
The often windy and exposed landscapes across Perthshire and coastal Fife increase the risk of branch failure and tree collapse in ash trees weakened by the disease. Failing ash trees can be dangerous, especially near:
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Roads and highways
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Footpaths and driveways
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Public spaces
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Neighbouring properties
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Car parks and private gardens
Because Ash Dieback often causes internal decay that is not visible externally, a qualified tree inspection is essential.
What Should Homeowners in Perth & Fife Do?
Here’s what you should do if you think your ash tree may be affected:
1. Book a Professional Tree Inspection in Perth or Fife
Our Lantra PTI-trained inspectors can assess the tree’s safety, identify structural defects and advise on whether the tree needs monitoring, remedial pruning or removal.
2. Prioritise Safety
Trees near houses, gardens, paths or roads pose higher risks if infected.
3. Check Permissions
Some ash trees may still be under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located in a conservation area. We can advise on required permissions.
4. Plan for Replacement Planting
Consider replanting alternative species to maintain long-term tree cover in your area.
Professional Ash Tree Inspections in Perth, Perthshire & Fife
TTS Tree Surgery provides specialist Ash Dieback assessments throughout:
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Perth & Perth City Area
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Perthshire (Scone, Kinross, Dunkeld, Aberfeldy, Crieff, Blairgowrie, Coupar Angus, Auchterarder)
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Fife (Glenrothes, Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline, Cupar, St Andrews)
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Dundee & Angus
Our services include:
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Negative tree surveys
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Risk assessments
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Advice on ash tree removal and management
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Recommendations for replacement planting
Every inspection is carried out to industry best practice by our Lantra PTI-trained team.
Need Advice on Ash Dieback? Contact Us for a Tree Inspection
If you’re concerned about an ash tree on your property in Perth, Perthshire or Fife, we’re here to help. A quick tree inspection can give you clarity, peace of mind and a clear plan for managing the risk.