JEEPERS, CREEPERS

Q

Terry from Innisfail asks: “Is the plant on my tree a parasite and how can I get rid of it?”

A

Thanks for the photo, Terry. The plant is not a parasite but its weight and moisture on the trunk will cause a problem to your tree in the long run. The plant is a North Queensland native fern, Microsorium punctatum. It’s a fast-growing creeper, spreading on a strong rhizome. You can pull the fern away, making sure to remove all the rhizome or it will regrow. To prevent the growth of ferns and lichen on tree trunks, add to a 10-litre bucket one litre of water-based paint, five litres of water, one cup of slated lime and one cup of copper oxychloride powder. Mix the solution well. Paint the solution one metre high on the trunk of all fruit trees and any other trees where necessary.