Question
Dear Dr Vann,  We have two plum trees.  A Stanley and a Toka.  The Toka plum tree has small greenish egg like things on the under side of the leaves and there are teeny tiny little flies all over the tree.  The new leaf growth appears deformed and curling up rather than stretching out. We live about 30 miles south of Iron Mountain Michigan in Wisconsin.  What can we do right now to save this tree?  Please help.  Thanks, Katie

Answer
Katie:
Best that someone sees your tree in person. The eggs may be from a beneficial insect rather than a pest.  These and the "flies" need to be identified to determine if they are harming the tree.  The curling growth could be from several things, including small critters called mites. These are very small and need a magnifying glass to see for the most part.

Suggest that you either (1) visit with your local garden center- not the big box stores about your issue or (2) contact your local county Agricultural Extension office. This office is usually in the courthouse. Often someone is available to make a "house call".  An on-site evaluation is the best idea.

If you feel a sense of urgency and don't wish to wait, you can try a general insecticide that is recommended for fruit. Again, your local garden center should be able to help.

Regards
Steve