Is this tree dying?
I have been told by a few people that the tree is dying (because of the spots)but now I had a group of master Gardener’s in my area come look at it and they said no it’s how it’s supposed to look but couldn’t think of the type of tree it is- they said it’s definitely not a maple though which is what others have told me- I’m trying to decide if I need to have it cut down but with all the conflicting information it’s confusing.
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I'd listen to the master gardeners you talked to. I have a couple of trees with similar spots in my front yard, and they're huge. They've been around forever. Here's some info on moss/algae/lichen on trees: https://inexpensivetreecare.com/blog/green-moss-on-trees-harmful/
It's not necessarily harmful, but can indicate that there's too much water or not enough sun hitting your tree. It also may indicate that the tree is older and it could hide other problems that the tree has. You can remove the moss/algae/lichen with a power washer if you want to.
Hi Amber, that looks like lichen growing on the tree, which is completely harmless and natural. Have a look at this article and see if it puts your mind at ease - https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=411
I would listen to the master gardeners. The spots look like lichen to me.
No , the free isn't dying , if I see it right , are they light green patches of spots ? I live in southern nj , and al most all the trees here have these spots , it's due to the climate conditions , moisture , humidity.... That is what I was told , when I asked the same thing .
Hello!
Gret question! I also learned in MG class that THE PRESENCE of lichens has no impact on tree health. I have them on my cedar and maple trees too.
“Lichens are numerous and important organisms in the natural environment that are generally beneficial in nature. The presence of lichens on healthy trees should be welcomed as likely positive indicators of lower levels of air pollution and a reasonably good quality of atmospheric conditions in the neighborhood. The homeowner with lichens residing on their damaged or diseased tree branches should concentrate upon identifying the real sources for the tree distress if any is seen. The lichens are not the cause for the condition of the stressed tree. However, lichens may co-exist on trees with other organisms that are causing disease or injury. Abundance lichen presence concentrated on damaged or dead wood may be a warning of present or impending invasive disease or decay caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses or insects and may require corrective action by homeowners or tree care professionals.”
Please review this attached link for more thorough and comprehensive information about lichens. I hope this helps!
https://njaes.rutgers.edu/fs1205/
The spots are lichen which grows naturally on a lot of trees - especially in moist areas. It is not under attack by any kind of pest. Since I can't really see the bark, it's hard to tell the species. It will be MUCH easier to tell once you have leaves because leaves are distinctive to each tree type. Wait until spring - and then you'll be able to identify the kind of tree by comparing leaf types on the internet.
does it have new growth? that's a sign it's alive.
You should be able to identify your tree by it's leaves. Looks like a lichen growth. Normally doesn't hurt the tree.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/fungus-lichen/treatment-tree-lichen.html
Well I find it odd that the Master Gardeners did not know what type of tree it is. I would wait until spring until it sprouts its leaves. Then call in a certified arborist to make that determination.
Trust the Master Gardeners. They go through quite a rigorous program to become Master Gardeners. They usually know what they are talking about.
And watch the tree in the spring. If some limbs do not get leaves, have those cut off. If many limbs do not get leaves, have it checked by a tree company.
I called an Arborist for our Persian Walnut problems, we are 10 minutes from St. Louis in Waterloo, IL. The MO Botanical Master Gardner program is great but, the Arborist is better for us. I think the problem determines which person to call.
It's pretty tough to tell a tree by it's bark and growth habit alone. The patches on the bark are lichen they don't hurt the tree. The way the Master Gardeners could possibly tell your tree is still alive is by the buds, if the are healthy looking and not shriveled or dry. Or if they took a small branch and tested to see if it was green/alive under the bark. I'd believe the Master Gardeners if they told you it was alive. Why did you think it was dead? If it's just the moss and lichen growth that's very common. Especially if it's growing in a shaded area that might be damp.
need a professional Certified Arborist. make sure they are certified they should determine what tree is,what the growth is and ways to save it,a good Arborist will try to save tree not just cut it down. Is the growth? all over tree? top of limbs,bottom of limbs, north side of tree only or all sides? from what I can tell all over?? what do the leaves on ground look like they(master gardeners) should have been able to tell by the fallen leaves where do you live? I sure hope it's ok trees are so important especially mature trees. Lichens & moss necessary too.The truth is that lichen and moss typically begin to grow on plants that are all ready experiencing poor health. So tree may need some xtra love. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants-and-fungi/lichens/ let us know what the prognosis is
Your tree is fine. It's some type of fungus or mold caused by a lot of moisture. We live in Pa. And see this on a lot of our trees.
Definitely get an Arborist to look at it or your County Extension Agent; they are a wealth of information. You need to be sure you don't have Emerald Ash insects or any other "issue" that may shorten the life of your tree. Ash trees may react badly to a very wet season, that is another thing a local professional will talk to you about. Unusual that you Master Gardner was not more knowledgeable.
If you send a picture to your extension agent,they can tell you what the problem is. It depends on what kind of tree, where you live ect. I too am a master Gardener, but i could tell you what kind of tree, but it could be some kind of scab or insect, or just normal moisture.