The Red Maple in my backyard is covered in pale-green lichens. Covered. Really covered. I wouldn't say the tree is doing particularly well - someone has done a poor job cutting limbs in the past, signs of rot, and breaking branches.
A swing hangs from one of the branches. It's sturdy. But I worry.
The birds use it all the time, of course.
It is a wetland edge, moisture-loving tree. A keystone specie for the region. We bought the house for this tree. It is regal, and massive, and peaceful and rotting.
If it goes, the backyard would be transformed. The light in to the house would be transformed. I imagine I would grieve for years, even as I appreciated the sunshine pouring through the western facing windows.
It is one of the first trees to 'bloom'. A critical source of nectar for pollinators.
Plant them. Plant one. Plant many. please....
Red Maple: Acer rubrum
Red Maple: Magical Properties
Red Maple: About
Red Maple: Planting
Red Maple: Cultivars
photo thank you to Brian Pfeiffer who is doing fascinating work and well worth a follow…