"David Hare-Scott" wrote in message
...
Graeme wrote:
Hello,

I have a manadarin tree covered with some sort of white scale. I
don't know what it's called. Maybe it's a bug or the waste from a
bug. I've attached a photo to help in identification. Could someone
please advise as to what I am looking at and the best method to get
rid of it. I've sprayed the tree twice with pest oil but this wasn't
effective in removing the scale.
Thanks,

Graeme.

There is a sap-sucking insect inside each blob, if you have too many they
will debilitate th tree. Standard treatments generally include white oil
or some kind of soluble oil. You can also get the bug inside the scale
with a systemic insecticide but you may still have to physically remove
the scale with soap or oil. If the tree isn't too big try scraping by
hand with a plastic knife or something similar.

David

Also have a look at an ant problem. They will harvest the honeydew the scale
or I think in your case mealy bugs exude while feeding. They will also bring
them in to do that job. A sort of win win for ants and their friends.