Especially in late summer, fruit trees and other woody plants are noticeable whose trunks and branches are covered with a yellow, green, red or gray coating. Some gardeners remove the covering because they consider it harmful and fear that the wood will be damaged. But is that actually true?

Lichens indicate high humidity

What are lichens, mosses and algae?

The vegetation is particularly noticeable during the winter months when the branches are free of leaves and are therefore bare. Lichens, mosses and algae primarily grow in damp and dark locations, which is why older trees with a spreading crown and the corresponding shadow cast are affected.

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Lichens are not plants, but a symbiotic community of fungi and algae. There are an estimated 16,000 different species worldwide, all of which vary greatly in shape and colour. However, lichens have one thing in common: they do not form roots that penetrate the bark of the tree. Lichens feed exclusively through photosynthesis and take the moisture and nutrients they need from the air. It is thus clear that the tree itself is not being tapped. You can easily find out for yourself, because lichens are only loosely attached to the surface and can easily be detached.

mosses

The mosses, which are very diverse in terms of shape and species, are usually green, brownish or greyish in colour. They are often found on the ground, such as in lawns, but also on the bark of trees - in places where it is shady and damp. The wetter it is, the better the sometimes very dense carpets thrive. Moss reproduces very quickly via seeds, which are produced in large numbers in the seed pods.

algae

Most people probably only know algae from the sea, but in fact these plants are also common on land. On the bark of trees there are often green algae that cannot be seen with the naked eye - but still cover the tree. Some algae, such as the genus Trentepohlia, can be recognized by the strong, flat orange or red color of the bark. Algae also feel most comfortable where it is moist and shady.

Does the vegetation damage the trees?

In principle, growth of lichen, moss or algae does not damage the trees, because the epiphytes feed on the sunlight and the air independently. However, increased growth must make us suspicious for other reasons, because it is a clear indication of a location that is too humid. Harmful fungi prefer to settle here, which can actually cause great damage to the tree. However, this is not the fault of the lichens, as these are only an indicator.

How do you remove lichen, moss and algae?

Basically, the growth does not have to be removed, you can only use a sponge and brush for aesthetic reasons. Mechanical removal is the only sensible option, but it is also very time-consuming.

tips

Lichens are mainly found on deciduous trees. Mainly apple trees as well as poplars and ash trees are attacked. However, the symbionts do not stop at any tree species.

Category:

Trees