An ancient ash tree, Fraxinus excelsior, topped 18 years ago due to the presence of excessive decay which was compromising its safety. It has since been pollarded every six years or so (including when I just did it). An example of how habitats can be preserved and encouraged to grow without posing any risk. Can you spot the 3 cavities visible from this direction?
A horse chestnut tree pollard which was removed to make space for the neighbouring trees was ringed up (cut up into manageable pieces) revealing interesting patterns inside due to fungal decay. It was interesting to try to ascertain where the decay had originated from by looking only at the decay in the trunk. I would have thought that the more decayed area would be closest to its origin but it was not so evident.
