Moss growing on tree

[coachgrd]

We have a very nice maple tree which sits within 20' of the house. It provides wonderful shade onto our deck. I do not know the age of the tree but it's safe to say it was there long before we built the house 10 years ago. Because of the house, only the top 3/4 gets sun. It appears very healthy except for moss growing on the west side where not sunlight never hits it. Do any of you know if this will this eventually kill the tree? If so, is there anything proactive I can do now before this nice Maple becomes nice firewood?

Thanks all...
Gary

 

[ToadHill]

It won't be a problem for the tree. I have a lot of trees in my woods that have moss growing on them for years and they are doing just fine.

 

[MarkV]

I'm no expert but I agree with ToadHill. Our property is heavily wooded with 50 year old growth and there is a lot of moss on trees. I bet those trees will be there longer than I will be. You could check with your county extension agent or the state forestry department, both may have some information.

MarkV

 

[clemsonfor]

Unless is some extreme moss, it will not kill a tree. Moss i think is not even a parasite, Lichen on the other hand is but will not kill a tree. I cant remember my relationships but i beleive lichen is the type that it beneifits the host doesnt but also is not harmed. Moss i think just grows and gets no nutrients from the tree, i could be wrong though on its nutrients.

Im a forester not a moss guy, it will not kill your tree though, lichens and mosses are a sign just like you said of little light and moisture.

 

[tallyho8]

Moss growing on the trees serves as a compass to those lost in the forest by always directing them in the same direction so that they don't go in circles.