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barbj Rank attained: Hazel Tree

Joined: 15 May 2010 Posts: 4
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Posted: Sat May 22, 2010 5:01 pm Post subject: Apple tree moss/fungus |
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Hello -- we have two quite old apple trees that have quite a lot of moss or fungus on them. It is greenish grey in color, and on most of the branches.
Wondered if there is a way to get rid of it with something that is non-toxic to people, birds, other wildlife, the tree, and other plants.
One tree is a Bramley, the other a red eating apple (don't know variety, but when we have more this year, will post a picture to see if anyone knows).
We planted two more eating apple trees, two plums, a pear, and a cherry, too -- we hope the moss doesn't transfer to them!
Thanks for your help. _________________ Barb in Sligo |
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mountainy man Rank attained: Hawthorn Tree


Joined: 18 Apr 2010 Posts: 83 Location: south east sligo
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Posted: Sun May 23, 2010 2:28 am Post subject: |
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hi barbj
sounds like moss or litchen i wouldn't worry about it too much ,moss is due to our wonderfull wet climate and litchen will only grow in pure clean air . only if there wasa huge amount would i bother to clear it , you can get a winter wash to spray on it in the winter obviously, that would clear it up but not very organic ! scrubbing brush mabey ? |
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michael brenock Rank attained: Chlorophyll for blood
Joined: 12 Aug 2008 Posts: 1275 Location: cork
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Posted: Tue Jun 08, 2010 10:08 pm Post subject: |
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mountainy man is right. the moss and lichen indicates that the air is clear and the rain brings nothing injurious with it like acid rain. Moss and lichens harbour pests such as aphids and red spider but these do minimal damage and the moss does very little harm. Appearance isn't everything but if you want a cure then tar oil winter wash is the solution sprayed on December /January.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired) |
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barbj Rank attained: Hazel Tree

Joined: 15 May 2010 Posts: 4
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Posted: Thu Jun 10, 2010 7:03 am Post subject: Apple tree lichens |
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Thanks for the information -- We'll put that on the list for winter then. Barbara _________________ Barb in Sligo |
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Lady Power Rank attained: Hazel Tree


Joined: 25 May 2010 Posts: 3 Location: Kilkenny
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Posted: Thu Jun 10, 2010 8:51 am Post subject: |
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Many gardeners are grateful to moss and find it beautiful,---sort of 'established' looking. And it really is an indication of a pollution free environment; guess that's why i especially love it and the look of it. |
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Sive Rank attained: Chlorophyll for blood
Joined: 18 Apr 2008 Posts: 1731 Location: Co.Wexford
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Posted: Thu Jun 10, 2010 11:11 am Post subject: |
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I agree with Lady Power, barbj, there is something wonderful about lichens...they convey a certain timelessness to anything they choose to cover. And above all they confirm you are breathing clean air.
You may grow to love them when you know they don't harm the trees. |
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James Kilkelly Rank: Site Admin

Joined: 30 May 2006 Posts: 2173 Location: West of Ireland
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