Lichens are everywhere
During this time of year, people often have questions about fuzzy or fluffy green things growing on trees or shrubs. What is being seen is a lichen.
Lichens are fairly diverse symbiotic organisms classified as a fungus. Typically, lichens will partner with algae or cyanobacterium. Algae will convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into food for the lichen, and the lichen protects the algae from drying out. Also, the lichen receives water from the air and the organism it has partnered with. To this end, symbiotic relationships that occur in nature is quite fascinating, but understandably, most people are more concerned with the damage being done to whatever plant it is found on.
Fortunately, lichens are not causing any harm to the plant.
Lichens are seen more commonly right now because the leaves have fallen. Without leaves, there is no way to shade the sunlight and the lichen grows through photosynthesis from the extra light. Lichen can be seen on parts of the tree or shrub not shaded by the canopy during the growing season, but when the leaves have fallen, they will thrive on all parts of the tree.
There are no chemical recommendations for removing lichens because they will go away when the tree or shrub canopy returns in the spring. However, lichens are indicator organisms, and their presence is a sign of possible poor plant health. If they are being seen during the growing season, then the tree or shrub more than likely needs care and has issues with the canopy. Once the overall health of the plant is improved, then the canopy should become fuller and prevent the availability of sunlight to the lichens.
To reiterate, if seen in the winter, there should be no issue with the plant. However, if seen in spring, summer, or early fall, the plant may need to be checked for its health.
For any questions on lichens or other agricultural related issues, please call the Baldwin County Extension office at 478-445-4394 or email brennan4@uga.edu.