North American Fruit Explorers mailing list at ibiblio

[Rick Valley <bamboogrove@cmug.com>]

Subject: Re: [NAFEX] Lichens on trees
> 
> I have heard that lichens don't harm trees but may indicate a poor
>> nutritional state.  They are getting pretty bad on my walnut and apple
>> trees and are unsightly.

I get similar feedback on my beard sometimes. But I notice that in certain
weather conditions both function as terrific water condensors. Thus it makes
good sense to hear lichen names like "barba de palo" (treebeard)

They give the little insectivorous birds more places to check for lunch,
too.

-Rick