Hello again!
My little 'Anna' apple tree is covered with little white, cottony-looking balls. Some of the branches look as if there are cocoons attached to them too.
Does anyone know what is happening and how I can correct it? I have a feeling I'm going to have to use a flame-thrower on this yard! LOL.
Thanks!
Jean
Apples and other pome fruit don't usually do very well this far south. They are subject to all sorts of pests - insects and fungi. From the picture I can't tell if it is mealy bugs or scale. Either way, I'd say go with a horticultural oil spray. Keep an eye out for fungi, too. I think rusts and black spots are going to be your biggest problems. They'll defoliate your trees as early as July. I'm not sure which fungicides are best for fruit trees - I have used copper on figs, though. Here's a link to the LSU AgCenter. they have some great information you can download.
8^)
http://www.lsuagcenter.com/nav/gardening/garden.asp
Dogbane, thanks for the info. I also e-mailed Dan Gill, asking if he could help identify it. This 'Anna' may have to go. I've just received two new apple trees bred specifically for our climate -- another 'Anna' and 'Dorsett Golden.' Pehaps if I give them some help with regular spraying and fertilization, they will do better.
Poor 'Anna' was on her own. Still, she gave me a crop of apples every year and even now, is full of buds and blossoms!
Again, thank you.
Jean
