Question
QUESTION: I have 1 year old pittosporum, probably 2-3 tall. For the last 7-8 months I have noticed a white marshmellowy growth. The white stuff is in ball shapes and is clustered around the leaves. I have sprayed the plant with malathion but the white stuff is still there and thriving. What should I try or is it able to be taken care of?

ANSWER: Hi Katlin:
Is the growth have a cottony(fuzzy) or a foamy consistency? Does it appear to be affecting the  leaves in a negative way other than appearance?  Are any other surrounding plants have this on them?

It would be very helpful to me to see this growth. Can you take a photo and send? Try to get as close as you can to take the shot. Take a few, pick the best and send that one.  Be sure to review your images on your computer to be sure it is in focus before you send it.

Steve

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QUESTION: I don't have my camera right now but the some of the leaves have black spots on them. The growth is more a foamy consistency and when you break it open, its creamy and have a green coloring in the middle. None of the other plants around it have this growth except for the other smaller pittosporum.

ANSWER: Katlin:
The foamy consistency may indicate an insect called a "spittlebug".  Resembles a small glob of foamy saliva or "spit" on plant surfaces.  Inside this foam is the immature spittle bug.  Try using Google Images and see some images and compare with what you have.  If they are not too numerous, just wipe them off- no need to spray.  I believe that the black spots are something else, not related to the foam.  When you have your camera, take a few pictures and send along.  Just reference your original inquiry when you send a photo- this helps to refresh may fading memory!

Regards
Steve

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Pittosporum   QUESTION: It's not really foamy at all, much harder than foam and sticky when you break it off

Answer
Katlin:

These look like scale insects. Can be nasty, especially if there are a bunch of them.  If there are not many, snip out the affected twigs and discard in the trash. Several insecticides available. Ck with your better garden center in your city. One good option is BAYER Insect Control for Shrubs and Trees. It has Imidacloprid in it and comes in a blue plastic bottle. It is mixed w/water and poured around the roots. Be sure it is safe for your plants by reading the label on the bottle.

Regards

Steve in Arkansas!