Green Splatters on Magnolia and Dogwood Trunks: Lichens

The green "splatter" on your magnolia and dogwood trunks is lichens—harmless, not a disease. They indicate good air quality and don't harm the trees.

Why on Your Trees?

• Older trees with slower growth and open canopies = more light on bark = more lichens.
• Magnolias and dogwoods have smooth bark—great lichen habitat.

Dogwood Decline?

Poor flowering on dogwoods is likely from dogwood anthracnose (see previous) or powdery mildew, not lichens. Lichens are just bystanders on stressed trees.

Magnolia Pruning

• Prune after flowering (late spring).
• Remove dead, crossing, rubbing branches.
• Don't top—ruins natural form.

Bottom Line

Lichens need no treatment. Focus on the dogwood's actual problems (anthracnose/mildew) and proper magnolia care.