Protecting trees

Promoting environmentally acceptable measures of preventing and controlling damage to Britain's trees from pests and diseases.

A major focus of our research is improving the effectiveness of the management of both native and newly established exotic problem species. Our approach is to understand the nature and reasons for the observed problems and to apply this knowledge to sustainable management of the organisms concerned.

Other key research forms an important line of defence in monitoring any changes in the health of our trees as well as providing advice on common tree disorders and how to manage them.

About this research, its background and objectives, and underlying Forestry Commission policy

Research

Specific tree and woodland problems

Diseases

Bleeding canker of Horse chestnut
Conifer root and butt rot - Heterobasidion annosum
Dutch elm disease in Britain
Oak decline / oak dieback
Phytophthora disease of alder
Phytophthora kernoviae (beech tree trunks, leaves of rhododendrons, pieris and magnolias)
Red band needle blight

Insects

Mammals

Other

Drought stress in Sitka spruce

Forthcoming conferences and events

Publications

Publications about protecting trees
Tree pest and disease alerts and advisory notes:
- Asian Longhorn Beetle ^(PDF-1721K)
- Emerald Ash Borer ^(PDF-4140K)
- Horse Chestnut Leafminer ^(PDF-179K)
- Oak pinhole borer ^(PDF-286K)
- Oak processionary moth ^(PDF-412K)
- Phytophthora ramorum (Sudden Oak Death) ^(PDF-184K)
- Problems on plane trees ^(PDF-437K)

Tree pest and disease alerts and advisory notes are bulletins and handbills showing signs and symptoms of tree pests and diseases and advice on what to do if you suspect the pest or disease is present.