--- title: What it Means if You See Green Stuff Growing on Your Trees description: That green stuff growing on your trees is likely moss or algae, and might be a sign your tree is in need of pruning. image: https://www.cartwrighttree.com/hs-fs/file-2756747059-jpg/blog-files/6865955844_84e94d519d_m.jpg --- # What it Means if You See Green Stuff Growing on Your Trees Jan 30, 2015 11:03:26 AM Keeping an eye on the visual appearance of your trees is something you should do regularly in order to make sure that they are healthy. Every once in a while, you may notice something odd. For instance, what’s going on if your trees have green stuff growing on them? Is this a cause for concern? [![ Green Stuff Growing on Your Trees](https://www.cartwrighttree.com/hs-fs/file-2756747059-jpg/blog-files/6865955844_84e94d519d_m.jpg?width=240&height=180&name=6865955844_84e94d519d_m.jpg)](https://www.cartwrighttree.com/hs-fs/file-2756747059-jpg/blog-files/6865955844_84e94d519d_m.jpg) Source: Flickr That green stuff is most likely [algae, lichens or moss](https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=411). They tend to grow on the trunks and stems of both trees and shrubs; however, for the most part it’s nothing to be worried about. Their growth results in humid and damp conditions, although they can also grow due to poor plant vigor. Algae tends to be most noticeable after wet weather, while moss and lichens are more noticeable during the winter – although they can grow all year round. For the most part, this green stuff lends a mature look to your garden. However, they can be a sign that your trees are [lacking vigor](http://ugaurbanag.com/landscapealert/moss-and-lichens-may-indicate-poor-plant-health), which means you’ll want to prune overcrowded branches as well as feed, mulch and water the affected trees. Keep this information in mind and contact us at [Cartwright Tree Care](http://dashboard.digitalsherpa.com/leads_form.php?leads_id=879) for [tree care services in Kansas City](https://www.cartwrighttree.com/tree-care/). [Tree Healthcare](https://www.cartwrighttree.com/blog/topic/tree-healthcare) ##### Like it? Share it: [Twitter ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.cartwrighttree.com/blog/means-see-green-stuff-growing-trees) [LinkedIn ](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.cartwrighttree.com/blog/means-see-green-stuff-growing-trees) [Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.cartwrighttree.com/blog/means-see-green-stuff-growing-trees) ### You may also like [Plants to Grow in the Shade of Your Trees ](https://www.cartwrighttree.com/blog/plants-to-grow-in-the-shade-of-your-trees) ##### [Plants to Grow in the Shade of Your Trees](https://www.cartwrighttree.com/blog/plants-to-grow-in-the-shade-of-your-trees) 10 July, 2015 Having a lot of shade in your outdoor area isn't necessarily a bad thing. Shade can be quite nice to have, especially du... 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