The ash tree is easily one of the most beloved deciduous trees out there. While there are many different varieties worldwide, three of them are actually native to Germany. When you find the perfect spot for one, an ash tree can reach impressive heights of up to 130 feet and live to be 250 years old!
Where Ash Trees Come From
The Common Ash is a staple of the European landscape. You’ll find it everywhere from the lowlands to the rolling hills of the central uplands. It’s even a fan of the mountains, feeling right at home in the Alps at altitudes of up to 4,600 feet. While it isn’t overly picky about where it lives, there are a few “sweet spots” that will really help it thrive.
Picking the Perfect Spot
When it comes to location, the ash tree is pretty easygoing. Whether your yard gets full sun or a bit of partial shade, this tree will grow beautifully and show off its full glory.
Give It Some Elbow Room
One thing you definitely want to keep in mind is spacing. You’ll need to leave plenty of room between your ash tree and other plants, as well as houses, sheds, or walls. Remember, it’s not just about that massive leafy canopy spreading out above; those roots underground need a lot of space to stretch, too. A good rule of thumb is to keep at least 13 feet of distance from buildings and other large trees.
Make sure to plan for this space right when you’re planting your young saplings. Trust me, trying to dig up and move an ash tree later is a massive headache—and often impossible—because of how large and powerful those roots become.
Soil Preferences
Just like light, the right soil makes a huge difference in how well your tree grows. Ash trees love humus-rich soil, and they don’t mind a bit of lime or clay mixed in. They also do quite well in sandy-loam soils. Ideally, the ground should stay fresh and moist. However, they aren’t big fans of “wet feet” (standing water), so avoid areas with poor drainage. A perfect spot would be near a stream or a garden pond where the soil stays naturally hydrated.
Growth at the Ideal Location
If your ash tree is happy in its home, it’ll definitely let you know by growing tall and strong. Under the right conditions, an ash tree can:
- reach a height of up to 130 feet
- and live to be up to 250 years old.
