How to Eliminate Mossy Growth on Azaleas
Azaleas are normally a plant with a dense, leafy canopy. But as azaleas decline in health, a mossy growth called lichen might start to grow on the trunk and branches. If you take a walk in the woods, you may see lichen growing on the trunk of trees or on the side of a mossy rock. Lichens are not harmful to plants, but can be found on neglected or diseased plants because of the increased sunlight that these plants are allowing on their trunks. Increasing the health of your plants will get rid of lichen long-term. But there are short term solutions.
Wait until after a rain to remove lichens. Rain typically loosens lichens, which makes them easy to remove.
- Azaleas are normally a plant with a dense, leafy canopy.
- Lichens are not harmful to plants, but can be found on neglected or diseased plants because of the increased sunlight that these plants are allowing on their trunks.
Buff lichen away with a gentle nail brush by rubbing the lichen with the brush in a circular motion until it is gone. As you rub the lichen, be careful not to damage the bark of your azalea plant.
Spray the lichen with an organic fungicide, such as one containing sulfur or copper. This will typically kill lichens without harming plants.
Warning
Always wear breathing protection as well as gloves when spraying an organic fungicide. Your skin can absorb the chemicals in the fungicide, so limit contact with these products as much as you can.
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Warnings
- Always wear breathing protection as well as gloves when spraying an organic fungicide. Your skin can absorb the chemicals in the fungicide, so limit contact with these products as much as you can.
Writer Bio
Tracy Morris has been a freelance writer since 2000. She has published novels and numerous online articles. Her work has appeared in national magazines and newspapers including "Ferrets," "CatFancy," "Lexington Herald Leader" and "The Tulsa World." She holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Arkansas.
