Menu
Lichens are fascinating and often misunderstood. When homeowners notice these growths on the bark of trees, it raises concerns about the health of their yard. If you notice lichens on your trees, consult a professional for pertinent information guaranteed to put your mind at ease. As a professional tree care company, the Driscoll Tree Service can help you understand what lichens are, their causes, whether they threaten trees, and if any action is needed.
Lichens are a complex symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga. This partnership creates a unique organism that can thrive in various environments, including tree bark. Lichens are diverse, coming in different shapes, colors, and sizes. Although they are not plants, they are a combination of two distinct organisms working together. The fungus provides structure and protection, while the alga conducts photosynthesis, producing food for both.
Lichens grow on trees primarily because of favorable environmental conditions. Like most fungi, they are commonly found in areas with clean air, adequate sunlight, and sufficient moisture. Tree bark provides an excellent environment for lichens to attach to and thrive on. Despite this relationship, lichens do not harm trees, so you don't have to worry about health concerns or tree removal emergencies. Instead, they show a healthy environment, as they are susceptible to air pollution and will not grow in contaminated areas.
The most common question homeowners as tree service providers is whether lichens are harmful. As mentioned, lichens do not harm the trees they grow on. They do not penetrate the bark or draw nutrients from the tree. They use the tree's surface to live without risking diseases, decay, or structural damage. Therefore, their presence should be something other than a cause for alarm and frequent maintenance calls to a local tree care company.
Now that you know about lichens, it is unnecessary to remove them. Attempting to remove lichens can increase susceptibility to diseases and pests. In addition, using chemicals to remove lichens can harm the tree and the surrounding environment. Certified arborists often recommend leaving lichens alone and appreciating their presence as a sign of a healthy ecosystem.
While lichens are not harmful, their sudden increase may sometimes show underlying issues. If a tree is already stressed because of poor health, it might become more susceptible to lichen growth, prompting a tree service call. You should monitor the overall health of your trees, looking for signs such as dead branches, leaf discoloration, or reduced growth. If any of these symptoms are present, it is advisable to consult a professional to assess the tree's condition and recommend lasting solutions like tree removal in case of severe deterioration.
Lichens on trees are a natural and often beneficial part of the environment. They are not harmful to trees, and their presence shows good air quality and a healthy ecosystem. It is advisable to focus on maintaining the overall health of your trees and enjoy the unique beauty that lichens bring to your landscape. If there are health concerns, contact the experts at the Driscoll Tree Service. Our certified can assess all the crucial aspects and tailor a solution that protects the tree without risking your landscape's wellbeing.
Benefits of Tree Trimming Do you have a tree that needs a lot of attention, but you're unsure what to do? Whether your tree is growing too close to the house, hangs over the driveway, or is growing unevenly, the…
Read MoreWho is Responsible for a Fallen Tree? Healthy and well-cared-for trees can be a valuable asset to your property, enhancing its beauty and value. However, the natural world can sometimes be unpredictable, and when a tree or large branch falls,…
Read MoreFactors to Consider When Choosing a Tree Service Company Maintaining the health and aesthetics of your trees is crucial for the safety and beauty of your property. Whether it’s pruning, trimming, or tree removal, choosing the exemplary tree service can…
Read More4 Tree Pests to Look Out for this Fall As the leaves change color and a crisp breeze fills the air, fall shifts the natural world. However, not just the season’s beauty capture our attention. With the changing weather, certain…
Read MoreHow to Tell if a Tree is Dead or Dying Trees are a valuable addition to any landscape; after spending a lot of time with them, you can tell when something is off. Some signs of damage can be detected…
Read MoreWhat Exactly Is an Arborist Report? Trees are a valuable addition to our environment, providing oxygen, curb appeal, shade, and a habitat for various species. However, when it is time for tree removal, especially protected ones, there are legal and…
Read MoreWhat's The Right Time of Year to Remove Trees? Trees provide a range of benefits to your property and the ecosystem. Whether it is enhancing curb appeal and giving shade or cleaning the air, the value of trees can’t be…
Read MoreTree Roots and Your Foundation: What Homeowners Should Know We like to think of trees as majestic givers offering shade on a blazing Georgia afternoon, adding character to a property, and even producing fresh fruit given the right season. But…
Read MoreTips and Techniques for Tree Removal Tree removal is a significant task that requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and efficiency. Because of disease, hazard, or landscape redesign, proper techniques are crucial for a successful removal process. Driscoll…
Read MoreYellow Leaves in Summer The sight of trees adorned with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow during fall is a natural spectacle that always captivates. However, when those same trees display yellow leaves in the summer, it may be…
Read More