How to Kill Lichens in Soil

Lichen is a type of primitive plant, like moss, that grows in shady, moist areas. There are many types of lichen that grow in soil, but the most common kinds are green and slimy when wet and brownish and crispy when dried. Lichen does not actually harm soil, but it can look unsightly in a flower bed or on turf. Poorly-draining soils or those with a poor nutrient content are more likely to be host to lichen.

Rake
Shovel
Compost

Instructions

- 1
  Cut any overhanging limbs that shade the area where the lichen is growing.
- 2
  Run a rake over the lichens to break them up and remove them from the soil. Add the lichens to your yard waste container.
- 3
  Remove a soil sample and take it in to your local university extension for testing. Soil testing will determine the correct amount of soil amendments to add to your garden. You can also have the lichen variety confirmed to determine the appropriate type of fungicide to use.
- 4
  Apply fungicide to the lichen according to the instructions on the label. Following the label instructions is often a legal requirement.
- 5
  Spread 1 to 3 inches of compost over the lichen area and work it to a depth of 6 inches if a soil test cannot be performed. This will improve soil nutrition and prevent the future growth of lichen.

What Kind of Soil Do You Need for Clematis?

Amending Soils With Leaves

Soil