Spanish Moss in trees - This misnomer is not a moss, and it does not originate in Spain. It is actually a bromeliad (Bromeliaceae) and it hails from Argentina but thrives in the tropical climates. The most common hosts in the Southeastern region of the United States are Live Oaks and Bald Cypress, but it can settle in many other trees. This plant is an epiphyte which means, a plant that thrives on other plants. It receives all of the water and nutrients that it needs from the air. Though it will not kill it's host, it will slow the growth by creating too much shade and causing the interior leaves to drop prematurely. It also increases wind resistance which can cause limbs to break and fall in a high wind situation. If Trees Could Talk provides a demossing service that will solve any problems you may have with Spanish Moss. Call us today, or Contact Us and give us your information so we can get back to you promptly.
2 Comments
J T
4/25/2010 11:15:40 pm
I'm thankful that I came across this information. I have Live Oaks in my yard that have lots of this Spanish Moss in them, and I just had a tree service tell me recently that I should have the trees pruned so that the Moss doesn't kill them. I wont be hiring them now.
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Matthew NealAn ISA Certified Arborist with 11 years of experience. Expert in problem diagnosis and treatment. Archives
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