If you’ve noticed a green film creeping over your garden walls or patio stones, don’t jump to conclusions—it’s not always moss. Sometimes, you’re actually looking at lichen. The good news? You don’t really need to be a master botanist to tell them apart, because getting rid of them involves pretty much the same steps.
The Difference Between Moss and Lichen
At a quick glance, it’s tough to spot the difference. Both moss and lichen love to hang out in those cool, shady spots of your yard. However, they are actually worlds apart biologically.
In the botany world, mosses are considered rootless land plants. Lichens, on the other hand, aren’t technically plants at all! They are a fascinating “symbiotic team” made up of fungi and algae working together.
Treating Lichen Just Like Moss
Even though they couldn’t be more different under a microscope, you can tackle lichen and moss using the exact same DIY methods.
Removing Lichen from Stone Surfaces
For stone walls or pavers, a little elbow grease with a wire brush and some hot water usually does the trick. If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn patch, you can level up your cleaning game with household staples like vinegar or baking soda.
The Vinegar Method
Lichen reacts to vinegar just like moss does. Simply pour some apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar over the affected area. Let it sit for a few hours to work its magic, and the lichen remains should loosen up enough to be easily scrubbed away.
The Baking Soda Solution
Baking soda is another fantastic, eco-friendly option. Mix about 1.5 tablespoons (25 grams) of baking soda into roughly 2.5 gallons (10 liters) of boiling water. Pour the solution on, let it soak in for a while, and then scrub those loosened lichens right off.
Using Commercial Moss or Stone Cleaners
If you prefer a ready-made solution, you can find specialized moss removers or stone cleaners at your local garden center. Just a heads-up: many of these contain harsh chemicals. Use them sparingly so you don’t accidentally harm the nearby flowers or grass you actually want to keep!
Moss and Lichen on Trees
If you see moss or lichen growing on your trees, there’s actually no need to panic or reach for the scraper. Neither of them are parasites; they don’t “suck the life” out of the tree or cause any damage. Unless you really dislike the look, you can just let nature take its course and enjoy the rustic, green aesthetic.
