Effects of flood duration on seedling survival and growth of potential replacement species in black ash (Fraxinus nigra Marshall) forests threatened by emerald ash borer

•Flood durations of 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 weeks tested in a greenhouse setting.•18 candidate species were assessed and assigned to 5 flood tolerance groups.•Survival and growth responses reflected species adaptations to flooded conditions.•Findings useful to match species to variable conditions found in black ash wetlands.