Skip to content

Removing and Replacing Your Ash Tree

One of the four recommended treatment options for a tree infected with emerald ash borer (EAB) is to remove the tree and replace it with another species that can grow well in Colorado. Though the EAB has yet to be found and confirmed in the Denver Metro Area, the removal and replacement option is both cost-effective and convenient for homeowners.

Step one is removal of the ash tree and step two is replacement. While it sounds easy enough, hiring a tree professional will make this process significantly easier. There are many tree professionals that are licensed by the Office of the City Forester who can lend a hand.

We connected with the wise folks at Denver Parks & Rec to ask for their recommendations for tree replacements. We asked for suggestions for species that will easily thrive in our local climate when provided adequate care. Drumroll, please…

Smaller Trees | Less than 30-feet high

Amur Maackia – photo courtesy of Oakland Nurseries
Any redbud – photo courtesy of Arbor Day Foundation
John Pair maple – photo courtesy of Iowa City Landscaping
Peking lilac – photo courtesy of Forestfarm
Three-flower maple – photo courtesy of Heritage Seedlings

Shade Trees | 30-feet and taller

Espresso Kentucky coffeetree (without seeds) – photo courtesy of Your Garden Sanctuary
Prairie expedition elm – photo courtesy of Laidback Gardener
Tuliptree – photo courtesy of Tennessee Wholesale Nursery

Trees in the approved list are those which, given proper and consistent maintenance including supplemental irrigation, proper pruning, and avoidance of chemical contaminants, will be assets to Denver’s beautiful urban canopy. You can also explore the approved list in its entirety.