Magnolia Tree Green Fungus Disease
If you have a beautiful flowering magnolia, either a dwarf size or the majestic full-size, you undoubtedly get concerned about elements affecting its optimum health and appearance. Often this concern centers around green growth on the trunk and branches and whether it is harmful to your tree. Does this Spark an idea?
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A Bit about the Magnolia
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The magnolia, with its many varieties cultivated for size and flower color, is associated with the southern states and their mild climates. They are medium growers and aside from the anticipated abundant spring blossoms, they are appreciated as a substantial shade tree when mature. Magnolias are tolerant of air pollution when their other needs of full sun and acidic moist soil are met.
What is a Fungus
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A true fungus lacks chlorophyll and has no stems or leaves. It reproduces by spores. These spores have multiple ways of being introduced to your tree. The spores can be transmitted to your magnolia on an air current, or by insects. Rainwater runoff can wash the spores from one area to another.
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Green Fungus on Your Magnolia
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Often seen on the trunks and branches of magnolias, the greenish growth becomes most visible as the leaves drop and the tree stands bare. If the greenish substance looks like scales it is lichens. Lichens is a type of fungus that will not harm your tree. Lichens can be found on living trees, or on dead, decaying wood on the ground. The tree provides the physical support the fungus needs.
If not Lichens, What is It?
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If your magnolia tree is subject to mild, damp weather and its trunk and branch appearance is altered by a greenish mildew-like substance, you are dealing with a type of algae. The algae, though not pleasant to look at, is not harmful. The spores are spread on the air current making it nearly impossible to control. You can have some affect on the algae with the use of commercial algae and mould (mold) cleaner products sold at garden centers. If you choose to use such a product be sure it is people, pet and plant friendly.
Ignore and Enjoy
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Whether your magnolia has patches of lichens or algae on its trunk and branches, rest assured neither is harmful. Ignore their unwelcome appearance and sit back and enjoy your beautiful shade tree with blossoms that herald the arrival of spring.
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