My Flowering Dogwood Has Moss Green, Hard Scale on the Trunk

Question

My flowering dogwood has a moss green, hard scale on the trunk.   It is patchy. I wonder if I should spray with Malathion.

Answer 1

Your problem sounds like lichen, which poses no real threat. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/fungus-lichen/treatment-tree-lichen.htm