Description of Evernia Ach.
Evernia ach. also known as tree moss, is a type of lichen that is commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia. It belongs to the Parmeliaceae family. It has a carpet-like appearance and is pale green to gray in color.
Origin
Tree moss is a lichen that grows on the branches of trees, particularly in areas with high humidity, such as forests. It is commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Common Names
Evernia Ach. is commonly known as tree moss, old man's beard, and beard lichen.
Uses
Evernia Ach. has been traditionally used for medicinal and commercial purposes. It contains compounds that have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating wounds and skin irritations. It is also used in perfumes, air-fresheners, and as a natural dye. In addition, it is used as a food source for reindeer and other wildlife.
In conclusion, Evernia Ach. is a type of lichen that has various uses including medicinal, commercial, and ecological. It plays an important role in nature by providing a source of food for wildlife and helping maintain the ecological balance.
Light Requirements
Evernia Ach. is a type of lichen that can grow well in both direct and indirect sunlight. However, direct sunlight exposure for an extended period can cause damage to the plant. Hence, it is ideal to provide partial shade to the plant during extremely sunny days.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Evernia Ach. is favored in cool and humid conditions. It can adapt to a wide range of temperatures, and the optimum temperature for its growth is between 10°C and 20°C. The plant can survive freezing temperatures but prefers temperatures that do not exceed 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Evernia Ach. does not grow in soil, but it attaches or hangs on tree barks. The plant requires a substrate such as a tree bark with low pH (acidic) and a high level of humidity. The substrate is crucial for the plant's water and mineral intake, and it plays an essential role in the plant's growth and survival.
Cultivation methods
Evernia Ach., commonly known as oakmoss, is a species of lichen that grows on the bark of oak trees. It is primarily found in forests and woodlands with high humidity levels and moist soils. To grow oakmoss, it is recommended to mimic its natural environment as closely as possible.
First, find a suitable location that has partial to full shade with plenty of moisture. Oakmoss is very sensitive to direct sunlight and drying out, so it is crucial to keep it shaded and moist. Next, prepare the soil by removing any debris and weeds, then work in a layer of organic material like peat moss or compost to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
After preparing the soil, gently press the oakmoss thallus, or stem-like structure, into the surface, making sure it is in contact with the soil. Water the area thoroughly, and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, until the oakmoss establishes itself.
Watering needs
As mentioned earlier, oakmoss requires consistently moist soil to thrive. The best way to ensure adequate moisture is to water regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be cautious not to overwater as oakmoss can be susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases. Try to maintain a balance of moist but well-draining soil.
Fertilization
Since oakmoss is a lichen, it obtains most of its nutrients from the surrounding environment naturally. Therefore, fertilization is not typically necessary. However, if you notice your oakmoss struggling, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer may help. Additionally, adding organic material like compost or leaf litter can improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is typically not required for oakmoss, as it a small, slow-growing plant. However, you may want to remove any debris or dead plant matter that accumulates to prevent fungal diseases and improve the overall appearance.
Propagation of Evernia Ach.
Evernia Ach. is a type of lichen that can be propagated through vegetative propagation or air-layering.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves cutting a piece of Evernia Ach. and replanting it to grow into a new plant. This method is suitable for large-scale commercial propagation as well as home gardening. The cutting is made from a healthy and mature plant. The cuttings should be approximately 5 cm long and should have a minimum of two branches.
Once the cutting is obtained, remove the bottom leaves, and dip it into rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in well-draining soil mix or substrate. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to promote root growth. The plant should be kept in a bright, but indirect sunlight area.
After about a month, the plant will start to show new growth, which indicates that rooting has occurred. After this, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Air-Layering
Air-layering is another method that can be used to propagate Evernia Ach. This method is suitable for plants with thick branches that are difficult to root through cutting. It is also suitable for plants that are not easily multiplied through other methods.
To propagate through air-layering, select a healthy and mature plant branch. On one section of the branch, remove the bark in a ring about 1 inch wide. Ensure that the inner part of the bark is intact. Apply rooting hormone powder to the exposed section.
Then, wrap the exposed section with moistened sphagnum moss and plastic film, ensuring the moss stays moist. Ensure that the moss and film are tied in place using string. The roots will develop in the moss after a month or two.
Once roots have developed, the section can be cut below the root ball and planted in a separate container.
Disease and Pest Management for Evernia Ach.
Evernia Ach., commonly known as "oakmoss," is a lichen species used primarily in the perfume industry for its distinctive scent. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that can harm Evernia Ach. and ways to manage or prevent them:
Common Diseases:
1. Lichen-mimicking fungi: These fungi can attack and kill Evernia Ach. by mimicking lichen's growth. To prevent the incidence of lichen-mimicking fungi, one should avoid overuse of fertilizers or any other external chemical application. Consistent watering, with gaps to dry out, can prevent the growth of these fungi.
2. Bacteria: Bacterial infection in Black root disease occurs when the fungus Phymatotrichopsis omnivora infects the plant’s roots. Black root disease causes slow growth, leaf yellowing, and, in severe cases, plant death. The use of disease-free planting material and maintaining proper sanitation by cleaning equipment can prevent the incidence of bacterial infections.
3. Viruses: Viruses can transmit diseases in Evernia Ach. These can cause mottling, mosaicking or mosaic disease. Their incidence can be prevented by managing the pests such as mealybugs, which are known to transmit viruses. During the early stages of infection, pruning of infected tissues/branches can help manage the virus spread
Common Pests:
1. Mites: Mites are tiny arachnids that are difficult to see. Their damage includes discoloration of foliage, leaf drop, and slow growth. To manage mites, one can apply insecticidal soaps, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area, and avoid spraying water all over the plant as it creates a humid environment favorable for mites.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects with a white, powdery coating. They suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing and distortion of foliage. To manage mealybugs, you can first manually remove them from the plant, spray insecticidal soap on the infested plant, and maintain proper soil moisture levels.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects are hard-shell pests that suck sap from the plant, making it weak and stunted. To manage scale insects, one can prune heavily infested plant parts, provide adequate light levels, and avoid overwatering.
By following these preventive measures, regular scouting for any signs of diseases and pests, and timely management, one can maintain healthy Evernia Ach. plant.
