Question:
Doc,
Are my trees getting sick? They have greyish green patches on their bark.
- Marcy F.
Doc’s Answer:
No – the growths you described are called LICHENS pronounced “Likens” and they do not harm trees. Lichens are a combination of green algae and fungi that live together symbiotically. The algae, a microscopic green plant, makes food from sunlight for the combination, while the fungus, a non green plant, provides support and absorbs the moisture they both need. Lichens form on many other moist surfaced such as rocks, soil, fallen logs, as well as tree bark.
Lichens are very sensitive to air pollution so their presence is a sure sign the air in the area is good for us to breath.
“Doc”
American Lawn and Tree Arborists
Tags: fungi, green algae, greyish green patches, lichens, tree bark, Tree Care & Prevention
