Question
infected holly leaves
Hi Dr. Vann,
I have attached a picture of holly leaves with spots. Could you tell me if this Scale? And if so, how do we treat it? I have read many mixed things online. Some sites say to use a product called Peremethin, others say some kind of hort. oil and then others say that oils are very harmful. Is there an easy way to treat without harming the tree? Thank you very much.
P.S- It appears that the white spots are only on the bottom of the leaves.
AnswerChrissy:
Difficult to say if this is scale or perhaps aphids or mealybugs.
The oils can be good, but must be applied at the right time. Some will injury the plant if applied during hot weather. Ask your nursery/garden center about a product that you mix with water and apply to the soil. The plant takes it up through the roots.
BAYER ADVANCED GARDEN TREE AND SHRUB INSECT CONTROL. It comes in a blue plastic bottle and is a liquid concentrate. It is expensive too, but is useful on many plants. Be sure to read the label on the container about mixing and applying. You can also carry a few of your leaves to the garden center to get a better ID on the insects you have on your holly.
Regards
Steve
