Knowledgebase

Is this moss harmful to my trees? #800265

Asked July 09, 2022, 4:13 PM EDT

Almost every tree and mature shrub in my front yard has moss and/or lichen covering their barks . Even when we have dryer weather the moss persists. Is this moss or lichen harmful to the trees? It is unsightly. How do I or should I try and remove these growths from my trees and shrubs? Thanks

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi Susan,
The picture on the left is moss (green) and on the right is lichen (grayish green).  Neither are harmful to the tree and you do not need to try and remove them.  This link will give you more information:
Lichen | University of Maryland Extension (umd.edu)
Thanks for contacting us,
Judy
Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied July 11, 2022, 6:05 PM EDT

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