Question
My wax myrtle is 6 years old and quite large.  However, I just noticed a lot of
black growing on the branches.  The little pods that are normally green are
mostly black, and this is all over the tree.  I have never noticed anything like
this.  Is this normal or something that needs attention?  I do not see anything
like this anywhere on the internet, and am not sure if I should spray anything
on the tree.  Please help :)  I would hate to lose this pretty tree!

Answer
At some point in time the plant has had an insect infestation with scale, aphids or whiteflies.  The black mold you see is called sooty mold and is not harmful to the plant unless it becomes real thick and blocks out the sunlight getting to the leaves.  The insects feed and leave behind a sugary substance called honeydew that the black mold then grows on.  If you treat for the insects, the mold will eventually go away on its own. I would treat the plant with Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide.  This product is mixed with water and poured on the soil around the base of the plant.  It is taken up systemically and will kill the bugs within a week or so.  It also provides protection from reinfestation for up to a year.  I hope this helps fix the problem.  Good Luck.