Sugar Maple Lightning Strike and Lichens: Damage Assessment

Bark Split = Lightning Strike

• Vertical split at 1 ft and 7 ft = classic lightning path.
• Moisture in phloem conducts lightning → explosive bark separation.
• Center moisture = tree explosion. Wet bark = less damage (surface conduction).

Green "Flower-Shaped" Growths = Lichens

• Symbiotic algae + fungi (epiphytes).
• Three forms: crustose (flat), foliose (leafy), fruticose (shrubby).
• Get nutrients from air — not parasitic.
• Indicate thin canopy (more light), not cause of decline.
• Control: improve canopy density via vigor.

Lightning Strike Protocol

1. Safety First: Hanging limbs → certified arborist immediately.
2. Wait to Assess: If no immediate hazards, wait until next spring to evaluate leaf-out.
3. Wound Care: Remove loose bark. No wound dressings (slow healing).
4. Fertilize: 10-10-10 at 1 lb/inch DBH. Boost vigor for compartmentalization.
5. Recovery: Most hardwoods (oak, maple) recover if canopy intact.

Lichen Note

Do nothing. They're harmless and indicate the tree needs more vigor (which fertilization provides).