Moss and lichens are not parasites, but they can harm plants by making it difficult for them to breathe and feed. How to get rid of moss and lichens on fruit trees and bushes?
Why do moss and lichens appear?
Moss and lichens appear on plants for various reasons, but most often it is associated with the following factors:
• Humidity - moss and lichens love a damp environment, so they often grow in shady and damp places, as well as after rain or snowmelt.
• Acidity - moss and lichens prefer acidic soils, so they often grow on plants that grow in such soils or receive acidic fertilizers.
• Aging - moss and lichen often settle on old and weakened plants that have damaged or cracked bark.
How to deal with moss and lichen
There are different methods you can use to control moss and lichen, but here are some of the most effective:
Mechanical - this is the simplest and most accessible method, which consists of scraping moss and lichens from the bark of plants using a brush or scraper. This must be done carefully so as not to damage the bark.
Chemical - this is a more complex and expensive method, which involves treating plants with special preparations that destroy moss and lichens. For example, you can use iron sulfate, boric acid or copper sulfate. This must be done according to the instructions and with safety precautions.
Preventive - this is the best and most effective method, which consists in preventing the appearance of moss and lichen on plants. To do this, you need to follow these rules:
• Choose a suitable place for planting plants, where there will be enough light and air.
• Take proper care of plants, pruning and thinning them out in time, removing dry and diseased branches.
• Feed plants with fertilizers that do not increase soil acidity, such as dolomite flour or lime.
• Treat plants against diseases and pests that can damage the bark and create conditions for the growth of moss and lichen.
Conclusion
Moss and lichens are plants that can harm fruit trees and bushes. To get rid of them, you can use mechanical, chemical or preventive methods.
