Question
 We live in a wooded area in North Central Florida.  Most of the tree's are so high, they can only be cut by climbing, no bucket truck goes that high.  We only have a few dogwood trees on the property and enjoy them all year.  Over the last 4 or 5 years they have become so thick with the Spanish moss we are now getting VERY little blooms and foliage.  Having lived in Florida all my life, I seem to remember some kind of home remedy for getting rid of it, but do not know now.  It is too high to pull down with rakes, tools, etc.  Is there something we can spray on them that will not hurt the tree's ?  I keep thinking the old wives tale was vinegar, pickle juice or something like that.  Help, I am afraid next spring they will have no blooms !

Answer
The following materials are licensed for control of Spanish moss and/or ball moss: TC Tribasic Copper Sulphate, Blue Shield, Basic Copper 53, Micro Flo Basic Copper 53, Micro Flo Copper 3 FL.
The mixture will be printed on the container that you buy. It may not say spanish moss but use the rate for ball moss.

It should be noted that there is evidence that copper-based herbicides and fungicides may cause damage to tender growth on trees. I would spray before the leaves bud out or wait until about mid summer when the leaves are not tender. As with all herbicides, when using these materials read and follow label directions carefully.

Hand removal of Spanish moss is possible and can be done successfully on small trees by standing on a ladder or using a pole.  The procedure is labor intensive and costly. Homeowners would be well advised to consider the ecological benefits of Spanish moss and let the plant grow unless heavy infestation is endangering the health of the tree through reduced light.

Baking soda has been shown effective for ball moss control at the rate of 40 pounds of baking soda per 100 gallons of water, Mr. Arm & Hammer has not put it on the label SO WE CAN'T RECOMMEND IT! However, if it is used, it should be applied exactly as the herbicides.