I have what I think is a Hibiscus tree that has masses of pink flowers from about September to October and it is covered with what I would describe as, as, algae. If it were an apple tree I would use a tar spray (I think). What should I do with my tree?
I would like to post a photograph but don't know how to. If you could give me instructions I will have a go.
You lucky guy. Lovely growth of lichens on the stems. They will do no harm to your shrub. I actually look at shrubs & trees for this characterisitc in my travels. I have tried to plant in my garden those that are receptive to epiphytic growth of algae, mosses & lichens. Adds so much character & interest. Some of the Exbury azaleas are great for this.
I agree with Lysichiton. Beautiful, and I don't think it will hurt your plant at all. If you are super worried, I would suggest scrapping it off, be very sure not to hurt the bark!!! And apply a fungicide as the instructions imply. but.... anything that applies the fungicide through the tree probably won't work, this is not living in your tree, I don't think - so only a topical pesticide would work. It is not parasitic, it is just using your tree to get closer to the sun. In addition, I am not sure that is a hibiscus. Do you have pictures of the leaves?
Wow, I just looked at the up close picture. Really, that is a spactacular and beautiful specimen of Lichens!!! Love it, I think I would keep it too!!!
Walking through my garden bought back the memory of the question I sent some time ago on algae on a Hibiscus so I thought that I would send a photograph of it hoping that I managed to upload it.
