Lichens on Tree Trunks: Harmless but Indicative of Stress

What You're Seeing

White/greenish crusty growth on trunks of dogwood, red maple, oaks, and maples is lichens—a symbiotic fungus/algae. They do not harm the tree.

Underlying Issue

Heavy lichen colonization on multiple species suggests environmental stress: compacted soil, fill dirt, grade changes, septic leakage, or root damage. The sparse foliage and dead trees support this.

Action Plan

1. Call state forester for free site evaluation of soil/site conditions.
2. Do not plant pines until the stressor is identified and corrected.
3. Address drainage, compaction, or grade issues first.