Green mould

We have a large(ish) Myrtle tree in our garden which is trimmed to be a round shape. Underneath is hung a bird tray for seeds. Recently we have noticed a green mould growing on the trunk, mainly on the side facing East. Does anyone have any idea as to what this might be?

Thanks

Brian

 

Just a bit of algae, or moss.

I doubt if it's anything to worry about, but if it looks unsightly, wash it off with warm water and washy-up liquid (not too strong) and a fairly stiff brush, just watch that you're not damagiing the bark by rubbing too hard.

 

Hi Brian,

As Quercus says it's probably moss or lichen or any other type of bryophyte/epiphyte that you have there. They are harmless to trees and use them as a growing medium rather than a food host such as mistletoe.

 

Thanks everyone, it is a bit unsightly but will probably leave it alone. My wife's more concerned than me.

Cheers

Brian