Pine Parenthood
Posted by Joanie on March 22, 2005
Q: I live in the Half Moon Bay area of California. It is a coastal community that tends to be quite damp. I have several large pines (I have no idea what kind) in my yard that are almost completely covered in green lichens. The trees look terrible. 1. Are the lichens damaging the trees? 2. Are lichens poisonous (we have a toddler)?
A: Lichens are not parasitic, but simply grow on the bark of your trees and do no harm. Actually, in most cases people think lichens look really nice and give a "natural" look to the rocks, trees, and whatever else they grow on. No, they are not poisonous and you have no need to be concerned.
Furthermore, lichens tend to grow where conditions are good, so it sounds as though you don't have much (any) air pollution. If lichens are growing on your trees, it's very likely that your area is quite healthy. Enjoy.
John Wiessinger ( March 22, 2005)