The emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive beetle native to Asia, has devastated ash tree populations across Minnesota in recent years. As communities deal with the loss of the Green Ash trees, it becomes crucial to explore alternative species for urban forestry. There are several trees that stand out for their resilience, aesthetics, and ecological benefits. Here we discuss the characteristics of Common Hackberry, Kentucky Coffeetree, Green Spire Linden, Birch, Swamp White Oak, Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple, Ginkgo, and Princeton Elm, highlighting why they make excellent replacements for ash trees in Minnesota’s landscape.

1. Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)

Common hackberry is a tough and adaptable tree, thriving in a variety of soil conditions. Its distinctive cork-like bark and serrated leaves provide year-round interest, while its ability to withstand urban stresses like pollution and drought make it a reliable choice.

2. Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus)

Known for its striking appearance and unique compound leaves, the Kentucky Coffee tree is both resilient and visually appealing. It can tolerate harsh winters and urban environments, offering shade and beauty to streets and parks.

3. Green Spire Linden (Tilia cordata ‘Greenspire’)

With its slender form and heart-shaped leaves, the Green Spire Linden adds elegance to any landscape. It boasts tolerance to pollution and compacted soil, making it an ideal urban tree. Its fragrant flowers also attract pollinators, contributing to local biodiversity.

4. Birch (Betula spp.)

Birch trees, including varieties like River Birch and Whitespire Birch, bring a touch of grace with their distinctive bark and delicate foliage. These trees thrive in Minnesota’s climate and can provide shade and habitat for wildlife while adding visual interest to the environment.

5. Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor)

Swamp White Oak combines beauty with resilience, featuring attractive lobed leaves that turn brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall. It is adaptable to various soil types and moisture levels, making it suitable for urban planting and restoration projects.

6. Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum ‘Bailsta’)

As an improved cultivar of the classic Sugar Maple, Fall Fiesta offers outstanding fall color and a robust growth habit. Its dense canopy provides ample shade in the summer, while its vibrant foliage brightens the landscape in autumn.

7. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo trees are living fossils, known for their fan-shaped leaves and tolerance to urban conditions. They are resistant to pests and diseases, making them low-maintenance options for city streets and parks. Additionally, Ginkgo trees are renowned for their remarkable longevity, symbolizing resilience and endurance.

8. Princeton Elm (Ulmus americana ‘Princeton’)

The Princeton Elm, resistant to Dutch Elm disease, offers hope for restoring the grandeur of elm-lined avenues. Its classic vase-shaped form and glossy green foliage make it a timeless choice for urban landscapes, providing shade and beauty for generations to come.

The devastation caused by the emerald ash borer has underscored the importance of diversifying urban tree populations. By selecting a variety of species with different traits and strengths, cities can enhance resilience and reduce the risk of future pest outbreaks. Planting these species not only helps mitigate the loss of ash trees but also promotes biodiversity, improves air quality, and enhances the overall health and beauty of Minnesota’s urban forests. Besides the trees mentioned in this article they are many other good varieties of trees that would make good replacements for the Green Ash.

River Creek Nursery, located at 1200 South Front Street in New Ulm would be glad to help you pick out the perfect tree for your yard. Along with trees, shrubs, evergreens and perennials, River Creek Nursery can build you a retaining wall or a beautiful paver patio.