In HelloNation, Lawn & Tree Care Expert Guy Mayhew Discusses Treating vs. Removing Ash Trees

NEW LONDON, Minn., Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- When should a homeowner treat an ash tree, and when is it better to remove it entirely?

A new HelloNation article addresses this common concern with insights from Guy Mayhew of Tree-n-Turf Services. Focusing on the Willmar area, the article explores the key factors that influence whether emerald ash borer treatment or ash tree removal is the more practical and cost-effective choice.

The article opens by noting that ash trees have long been valued in local landscapes for their shade and structure. But with increasing concerns around declining ash tree health, especially in the Willmar area, more homeowners are facing tough decisions. According to the article, one of the first things to consider is tree size. Larger, established ash trees may be worth treating, especially when they provide functional or aesthetic value. Smaller trees may be more economical to replace if they are already under stress.

Ash tree health is another major consideration. The article explains that trees with full leaf growth, stable canopies, and intact bark are more likely to respond well to emerald ash borer treatment. On the other hand, trees showing signs such as thinning leaves, bark splitting, or branch dieback may be too far gone. Identifying these warning signs early can help avoid wasted costs on ineffective treatments.

Safety also plays a role, especially for ash trees located near homes, sidewalks, or high-traffic areas. A declining tree in a risky location may need to be removed to prevent accidents. In these cases, ash tree removal becomes not only a practical choice but also a responsible one.

Timing is essential. The article emphasizes that emerald ash borer treatment is most effective when applied before visible signs of decline become severe. Preventive care, when timed right, can help preserve tree health for years. Waiting too long can limit treatment options and increase the likelihood that ash tree removal will be necessary.

Cost is another factor discussed in the article. Ongoing treatment requires periodic attention and resources. For a healthy tree, this investment can make sense. But for trees with poor long-term outlooks, the article suggests that removal may be more practical. Comparing the total cost of treatment versus removal helps homeowners make better financial decisions.

The article also touches on the environmental and visual benefits of mature trees. Preserving a healthy ash tree supports local shade, cooling, and neighborhood appeal. In many cases, these less tangible benefits influence whether emerald ash borer treatment is worth pursuing. Tree size and location are central to these evaluations.

Ash tree removal, while sometimes necessary, brings its own challenges. Large trees may require heavy equipment, especially in hard-to-access areas. The article advises that planning removal in advance, before the tree becomes unstable, can save time, reduce risk, and prevent property damage.

Regardless of the decision made, the article stresses the importance of ongoing monitoring. Trees receiving treatment should be watched for signs of improvement or further stress. Trees slated for removal should be scheduled early to avoid emergency situations. This proactive approach, especially in the Willmar area, helps homeowners stay ahead of issues tied to ash tree health.

Ultimately, the article concludes that deciding between emerald ash borer treatment and ash tree removal is a personal decision shaped by tree size, condition, cost, and safety. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. A careful evaluation of each tree helps ensure responsible and informed outcomes.

How to Decide Between Treating and Removing an Ash Tree features insights from Guy Mayhew, Lawn & Tree Care Expert of New London, MN, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation