Question
I live in South-east Wisconsin and have three red twig dog wood plants that are planted next to each other.  Two of the three plant are covered in what looks like flax seeds. From a short distance it looks like the plant is dead.  The branches or twigs look light gray in color, not red like normal.  And when looking up close at them, they look like they are just covered in these seeds and they don't fall off when you touch them.  There are a few branches that still look normal but the ones that are totally covered feel dead.  I am not sure if I need to remove these plants or if this is normal.  I don't ever remember seeing this in the last two years (I have only had them 2 years).  They are planted about 3 feet up hill from a run off pond.  There is also a birch tree and a curly willow that are closely planted next to them and they are doing very well.  They were covered with snow for the whole winter, not sure if that matters.  Please help.

Answer
Hi Debra,
Thanx for your question.  It sounds like you have an infestation of armored scale on your red twig dogwood.  I would call the local county extension horticultural agent and ask them if you can bring in a sample for them to look at.  If you'll give me your county, I'll get you contact information.  I hope this helps.
Tom