Lychen - a bad thing?

[HeyWayne]

Whilst in the garden at the weekend, I had a quick scout around to see what was growing as I went about planting various seeds etc. When I looked at our Acer (at least I think that's what it is) I noticed patches of bright green lychen on the branch "joints". I seem to recall having read/seen somewhere that lychen was a good indicator of low air polution - am I going mad?

Also wondered if it is likely to harm the acer? It seems a shame to remove it, I think it looks quite pretty (I'll try and post piccies later).

[snuffer]

I too have been led to believe that lichen prefer to grow in areas of low pollution levels. I don't think they do any harm. As far as I am aware they are not parasitic (or how could they grow on stone). Our fruit trees have lichen on them and they all seem allright.

In Wales I have seen apple trees completetly covered by lichen and various mosses and it didn't seem to be bothering them.

[scarey55]

I think I heard that too, I hope it's right because we have got loads on our ash trees.

Just googled and come up with this and this - looks as if you are right

[Flummery]

It does indicate good air quality. And it doesn't do much harm. I like it, but that's just my opinion.

[Snadger]

It does indicate good air quality. And it doesn't do much harm. I like it, but that's just my opinion.

So do reindeer!

[Gryfon]

We have lots of that here. My apple tree has it as well as just moss growing

[kentvegplot]

I think it's lovely too - got it all over the damsons and hawthorns. I'm sure it's fine to leave it.

[HeyWayne]

See, I quite lychen it too - pretty innit?

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l7...t/IMG_2268.jpg

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l7...t/IMG_2269.jpg

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l7...t/IMG_2270.jpg

[Flummery]

So do reindeer!

Don't get many here!