Lichen on cherry tree....

[JP]

My cherry tree seems to have that blue-green scale lichen growing on the
trunk and main branches. Does this harm the tree? Do I need to remove it
or would that cause more harm than good? If I did remove it how would I
do that? (scrub brush?) Unfortunately the wet and shady environment in
my backyard is great for growing things I don't particulary care for
like moss and lichen.

~ jp ~

[Dennis R. Moore]

On Mon, 02 Jun 1997 18:07:34 -0700, JP <J...@farandfew.com> wrote:

>My cherry tree seems to have that blue-green scale lichen growing on the
>trunk and main branches. Does this harm the tree?

Lichen do not harm trees in any way unless, perhaps, if it becomes
extremely thick. Personaly, I find it attractive.

>or would that cause more harm than good? If I did remove it how would I
>do that? (scrub brush?)

If you wish to remove it, doing so will probably cause no harm either.
A scrub brush should work fine. It's growth can be discouraged by
applying a fixed copper spray during dormant season. BTW, Cherries are
poor choices for wet, shady areas.

Dennis