Reduced radial and branch growth, loss of apical dominance in branches (a condition called deliquescent branching), and progressive decline are typical symptoms of ash yellows. Shortened twig growth is common, resulting in tufted foliage. Leaves of infected trees are often smaller than normal and light green in color, and they may develop early fall coloration. Eventually a progressive dieback of branches begins, and witches' brooms may develop. Witches' brooms occur most frequently on trees with severe dieback and on stumps of diseased trees. They commonly develop at the base of trunks but occasionally can be found several feet above ground. Vertical cracks often occur on the lower trunk. Symptom progression is slower and the disease less severe in green ash than in white ash. Although witches' brooms are diagnostic for ash yellows, only a small percentage of infected trees display this symptom. Laboratory confirmation of ash yellows is based on a staining technique using a fluorescence microscope.
Emerald Ash Borer symptoms mimic Ash Yellows so proper identification is important.
James E. Schuster, retired Extension Specialist, Horticulture & Plant Pathology, University of Illinois Extension
