What Can I Replace an Ash Tree With?

Ash trees grow in most parts of the world, though the more than 60 tree types that make up the Fraxinus species are in increased need of being replaced by other tree types. The increasing demand to replace ash trees comes from the fact that many ash trees are dying off. Large projects to replace them with stronger (and often disease-resistant) breeds have launched in areas like Omaha, NE. Here are some of the suggestions for what you could replace an ash tree with.

What Can I Replace an Ash Tree With?

Sycamore Trees

Sycamore trees are also referred to as Planatus occidentalis. Some of the most obvious characteristics of sycamore trees are their broad leaves and their bark which is known to peel away from the tree in long and thin paperlike strands.

The consistency and care conditions of sycamore trees are similar to that of ash trees. Both types of trees are often used for woodworking purposes due to their similarity, though it also counts much for an active and growing tree.

Maple Trees

Maple trees are known for their strength and leaf patterns, and the general word maple actually describes a genus that contains more than 40 different tree types. While maple trees can require more care than other tree types, with the right treatment, they can flourish into large trees that serve as a habitat for many things that live in a healthy ecosystem.

While maple trees are not as similar to ash as sycamore trees, their size and characteristics can still make them a worthy replacement for any ash trees. It’s one of the top replacement options for ash trees recommended by the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Alder Trees

Alder trees have gained popularity as a viable replacement for ash trees in landscaping and urban forestry due to their resilience and adaptability. With the looming threat of ash tree decline caused by the emerald ash borer (EAB), alders offer a promising alternative.

These deciduous trees, belonging to the genus Alnus, exhibit excellent tolerance to a variety of soil conditions and are known for their ability to thrive in both wet and dry environments.

Furthermore, alders bring aesthetic value with their lush, green foliage and can contribute to the restoration of green canopies in areas affected by ash tree loss.

Aspen Trees

Aspen trees have become one of the most popular types of trees to replace ash (or alder) in gardens and landscaping projects. The Populus tree family is quite vast but covers several individual tree types – including the quaking aspen.

Instead of growing outwards and spreading its leaf profile like the sycamore and some other large tree species, the aspen tree tends to grow upwards. Because aspen trees grow upwards, make sure that you don’t plant this in the way of anything that could obstruct the tree, and allow enough room for root growth.

Oak Trees

Oak trees are known for their size, and while they’re not the most commonly thought of replacement tree type for ash, they are a good one to consider. There are more than 500 different types of oak trees in the beech family (Fagaceae).

This type of tree is a good replacement for ash trees because they flourish under the same conditions, and love to grow in similar climates.

Additional Reading: The Need for Diversity – Nebraska Forest Service

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