Mountain Ash Tree Is Being Surrounded By Quaking Aspen

Question From: L. Thurlow - Whitefish, Montana, United States
Q: Hi Nancy, I have a lovely Mountain Ash in my back yard. It is being surrounded by quaking aspen. Can the mountain ash thrive surrounded by quaking aspen?

A: I recommend you take down the quaking aspen as it sounds like the Mountain Ash is a specimen tree in your yard. Trees never do well when planted in close proximity. Quaking Aspens are short lived and grow very fast. I happen to love them for their leaves that flutter and are the first to indicate when a storm is brewing. Others consider them trash trees. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy