AT A GLANCE
What are those yellow spots on the trunk of the apple tree?
The yellow spots that man often on older trees sees are Weave. For laypeople, these can give the impression that you are removing nutrients from the fruit tree. However, this is not the case, which is why control is rarely necessary.
Where are the yellow spots coming from?
The yellow spots are not related to pests or plants that feed on the tree sap, but to a collective of algae and fungi, that the tree as a base for growth uses.
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- pruning apple tree
In addition to the bark of older trees, these so-called lichens also colonize stones, rocks and sandy soils. They are among the longest-lived creatures and can live for thousands of years.
Does the yellow ringworm damage the apple tree?
Since lichens only use the apple tree as a base, but absorb water and nutrients from the air, damage She the orchard usually does not. On the contrary: as long as the vegetation does not get the upper hand, they even protect the trunk and branches from invading fungi and bacteria.
However, if the lichens also overgrow the buds and prevent them from breaking open in an old, already weakened apple tree, this can have a negative effect on the vitality of the tree.
Do I have to do something about the yellow spots on the trunk?
Because often in the rough surface of the vegetation codling moth and tree lice overwinter, you should too dense vegetation at least by braiding partially remove:
- The loose bark and the lichen can easily be brushed off with a soft brush.
- You can then take the wood with you a protective glue ring or painted white.
- With old apple trees can also a makeover cut be helpful.
- Cut off those branches where the buds are densely covered with lichen.
Tip
Lichens indicate clean air
In the big cities, lichens are far less common on trees than in the country. The reason: the rootless plants feed exclusively on water and nutrients from the air. Since they also do not have an excretion system, they are very sensitive to contamination. They are therefore important indicators that can be used to determine the levels of air pollutants and heavy metals.
