Crapemyrtle Lichens: Harmless Growth or Sign of Stress?

Crapemyrtle Lichens: Harmless Growth or Sign of Stress?

A homeowner's crapemyrtles were declining, with green "fungus" on the trunks, little growth, and no blooms. The issue was diagnosed as water stress, not a fungal disease.

Lichens Are Not the Enemy

The green growth is lichens, which thrive on sunny bark and are completely harmless. They appear when the canopy thins due to stress, such as drought and competition from grass growing up to the trunk.

Recovery Plan

• Remove grass in a 5-foot radius around the base.
• Mulch with pine chips or straw.
• In mid-April, apply 5 gallons of liquid fertilizer (e.g., Miracle-Gro) under the canopy.
• If no vigorous regrowth by summer's end, replace the tree in fall.