On Sat, 24 Feb 2007 11:18:37 -0000, "Dave" wrote:


"Sacha" wrote in message
.uk...
On 24/2/07 10:37, in article ,
"Dave"
wrote:

Good Morning,
I wonder if anyone can help me with a problem I have with a camellia?

We have a fairly large Camellia in our front garden that was planted at
least 20 years ago and has always thrived and had numerous flowers in
spite
of our soil being mostly clay.
We've noticed this year that although there are loads of buds some of the
leaves have a black mould type covering.
Would some one be able to advise me what the best treatment would be
without
doing the plant any damage.

Have a look at this, Dave. If the cause seems to be the correct one, the
cure is here, too:
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/camelli...hion_scale.asp
--
Sacha
http://www.hillhousenursery.co.uk
South Devon
http://www.discoverdartmoor.co.uk/
(remove weeds from address)

Hi Sacha,

Yep, that seems like the problem! I'll get the spray they recomend and hope
for the best!!

Many thanks for your time

Regards
Dave


Sooty mould is very common on camellias, and is caused by mould
growing on the sticky deposits produced by any of several types of
sap-sucking insects such as aphids, scale insects etc. It is
unsightly, but seldom harmful to the plant, and can be washed off
using a sponge if you're really concerned about it. Whether the
sap-suckers themselves need dealing with depends on the severity of
the attack. Soapy water (washing-up water strength) sees off most of
them.


--
Chris

E-mail: christopher[dot]hogg[at]virgin[dot]net