MONTY’S PLANT OF THE WEEK

Every so often, people ask me how to get rid of the ‘problem’ of lichen – halffungus, half-alga organisms – on their fruit trees or shrubs. But to do this would be a mistake and, at worst, eco-vandalism – the fact that you have lichen is a sure sign that the air is clean. Also, they cannot harm their host, whether of plant material or stone. So if you have lichens growing in your garden feel privileged, relish them as a sign of health and celebrate their subtle beauty as they encrust the branches of trees with their delicate but rich colours.