Lichen!
A harmless and sometimes considered unslightly combination of algae or cyanobacteria and a fungus, coming together in a mutually beneficial relationship.
With a range of colours and forms, the presence of lichen on a tree is a sign of clean healthy air and that it has no negative impact on the growth of the tree.
An epiphyte (a plant or plant-like organism that grows on the surface of another plant), lichens are unlikely to kill a tree, or cause it to fail. Lichens are not parasitic and do not draw nutrients from the tree.
Lichens need sunlight for photosynthesis, so they don't thrive in heavy shade. Consequently, they are typically found on deciduous trees or trees that are already dying, as these conditions provide less leaf cover in the canopy, allowing more light to reach the lichens.
While it is normal and natural for lichen to be present on a tree, an abundance of lichen might suggest that the tree is experiencing some form of stress.
If you are concerned about the presence of lichen
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Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.6% Second half of November
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43.4% 1st December
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17.6% A week before Christmas
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33.2% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.8% Yes
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14.6% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
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