Lichens
Posted by Rick Schumacher on July 24, 2006
Q: We recently build a new house by a large formation of rock (slate) that is covered with lichens. Many of the rocks were covered with dirt etc (the remain of the construction). After removing the dirt I find most of the lichens are gone. Is there any way to reintroduce them back to the rocks and get them to grow again? Thanks, Rick
Habitat: forest/open woods
State: South Dakota
Habitat: forest/open woods
A: You're a man after my own heart - I too would want my lichens back!
The dirt has probably killed the algae (no light available) and therefore the entire alga/fungus symbiotic organism we know as lichens. If at least some lichens are present on the rocks my guess is that they'll recolonize but I know of no way to do it yourself. Guess I'd be sure that the rocks are clean of any soil so spores can get a good hold on the rock and begin growing. This isn't going to be an overnight process, lichens grow slowly, but over the next few years, you should be able to see the lichens spread. Best of luck to you and your lichens. Thanks for asking.
John Wiessinger ( July 25, 2006)