What is the best nutrient solution for encouraging lichen growth on rocks?
Apparently the CRC Handbook of Lichenology has something, but I cant locate a copy of the book.
I need some sort of mixture that can be sprayed on rocks to cultivate lichen.
Squink
February 14, 2005, 3:16am
2
From here
Somewhere on the internet, someone tried smearing their rocks with yoghurt, and got no noticeable lichens.Transplanting Lichen.
Blake
February 14, 2005, 11:43am
3
Have you checked out the British Lichen Society website? (No, I’m serious, there really is a BLS. And you thought train spotting was bad.)
http://www.thebls.org.uk/index.html
Blake
February 14, 2005, 11:45am
4
Over the past few years many different substances have been painted onto buildings to encourage more rapid colonisation. These include yoghurt, beer, skimmed milk, thin porridge and, in Japan, rice water. To all these substances a small quantity of PVA (polyvinyl acetate) adhesive may be added. This acts as a binder, improves the adhesion of the nutrient and possibly allowing more gradual release over a longer period. On very alkaline materials, such as new concrete, a slightly acid substance will assist in neutralising the high alkalinity. Dilute cow slurry is frequently used, the urine present providing the acid content and the brown staining caused by the slurry giving an immediate toning down of the concrete. Little work so far has been done to determine the frequency of application or strength required. The evidence from those who have tried these methods seems to show that they work. Various timings have been suggested but it is probably worth trying about four applications at yearly intervals. Even a single application would probably assist, but due to the very alkaline nature of new concrete it would be more effective to give at least a second coat after about two years. On more acid stones, such as granite and sandstone, it is suggested that, especially in polluted areas, powdered chalk is added to the mixture to neutralise this acidity to some extent. To aid colonisation, coarsely ground up pieces of lichen can be added to the mixture before it is painted onto the surface. If this is done, care should be taken to use only lichens that are growing abundantly in the local area, and which are found in a similar microhabitat to that on which they are placed. In this way, the chances of success are greatly increased, as many of the lichens require fairly precise conditions in which to grow.
http://www.thebls.org.uk/mmade.htm
Thats brilliant. Thanks Blake .