Lichens on cherry trees are harmless. They settle on the trunk and branches, sometimes look a bit bizarre in their variety of colors, but have no influence on the health and yield strength of the cherry trees.

Interesting facts about lichens

Lichens are a symbiosis of fungi and green algae or cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae). They grow on the bark of trees without penetrating the interior of the wood. They are not parasites, so they do not have a negative impact on the health of their host plants.

There are around 2,000 types of lichen in Central Europe, around 1,500 of which can be found in Germany. The lichens grow very slowly and are therefore only clearly noticeable on the older trees. Lichens can get very old.

Lichens as an indicator of the good air

Lichens only thrive where air pollution is low. If lichens are noticeable on the cherry trees in the garden, this is a sure sign of an improvement in the air quality in the area. Since the lichens absorb their nutrients and water from the air, they are sensitive to any change in the air.

Are lichens harmful to cherry trees?

As is so often the case, there are differing opinions on this question. Among other things, pointed out the dangers of lichen infestation for the young shoots, which would be impaired in their growth. Furthermore, the surfaces of lichens are said to offer hibernation hiding places for pests and generally indicate poor care of cherry trees.

The lichens are also said to have the ability to bind precipitation moisture and thus encourage pathogens. In addition, the infestation of cherry trees by lichens is said to indicate insufficient growth and thus an unfavorable location and/or insufficient nutrient supply.

tips and tricks

Due to their modest requirements, the lichens often conquer extreme habitats, such as rusted metal, rock or plastic surfaces.

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Vegetable garden