Question
I have 6 flowering plum, they are 10 years old. the trunks have been turning yellow with what looks like moss, its on the rail fence, the 8'honeysuckle and the older locus also, This is a shaded area.I have been looking for info but have not found anything that looks similar. do you have any ideas?

Answer
Hi Barbara:

Glad you are joining us from afar! These growths may be lichens, a complex growth that is actually a fungus and an algae growing together in a symbiotic relationship. They come in a variety of colors and shapes. Have a look at some images from "Google Images" to compare.  These are not considered plant disease organisms. We tend to see them on older/declining plants. They are a result, not the cause. My wife says I am developing lichens Ha-Ha!! We also see these on inert things like rocks and even power lines. Also on woody plants that are in the shade.

Let me know if these turn out to be lichens.

Regards

Steve