Lichen in ornamental Japaese maples - Ask Extension
How do you get rid of lichen in ornamental Japanese Maples. The lichen is fairly established. I have heard that a Lime sulfur fungicide like Hi-Yield ...
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Lichen in ornamental Japaese maples #614334
Asked February 22, 2020, 5:57 PM EST
How do you get rid of lichen in ornamental Japanese Maples. The lichen is fairly established. I have heard that a Lime sulfur fungicide like Hi-Yield lime sulfur fungicide works well. What about a liquid Copper fungicide like the Bonide Copper Fungicide?
We are surrounded by Douglas Fir trees with lichen.
Our garden is 75 yards from the river. I understand these fungicides are harmful to aquatic life. We would not apply spray before a rain.
Thanks, Ed
Douglas County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question. Because lichens (and their 'neighbors,' the mosses) are valuable entities in the environment, we do not recommend attempting to remove or kill them at all. They actually help remove toxins from the air, provide valuable habitat for small insects and animals, and are a source of food for some wildlife. Here is an article which explains this life combination and their value: https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2073/2014/03/02-24-12_Lichens.pdf
Love the lichen!
Love the lichen!
Kristena, Thanks for the quick response. Based on your advice I will leave it alone.
Yea!
