Question
Hello Jim,
We have a serious problem here in the Lexington, Ky area. We have a tree approximately 10 feet tall that has leaves covered with black suit, white mealy bugs and gall 'bumps'. The worst of it all is the black flies, yellow jacks and wasps that are attracted to this tree. There are at least 300 of them swarming at all times. It is quiet an sight! A friend suggested spraying it with Malathione(sp) and we did that about 3 weeks ago...but it hardly made a dent.
Do you have any suggestions?

Hoping to hear from you and may we offer a sincere "Thank You" for providing this service!
Geri

Answer
You need to get a systemic insecticide--check with your local nursery/garden type store fo a systemic insecticide for aphids. The wasps are attracked to the honeydew excreted by the insects (high in sugar content) the sooty mold is just growing on the honeydew. Control the aphids and mealy bugs and you will control the sooty mold and the wasps will go away.