Hawthorn Tree And Cottoneaster Getting White Pustules With Oily Substance Inside

Question From: Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
Q: Hi Nancy From Fort Collins, CO On Hawthorn tree and a cottoneaster plant with red berries we are getting these white pustule and when you squeeze then ooze this oily substance. Someone said it was mealybugs. Is that true because we sprayed 2 years ago and provided some help but they were back in full last year. So we tried ladybugs but they didn't seem to hang around very long. I am mostly trying to confirm if its mealybugs or something else.

A: I think you have cottony scale. Either way, I recommend using AzaMax - it's organic, OMRI listed and works very well. Your tree may be under stress and in need of some TLC. I'd have an onsite inspection from a certified arborist. The benefit of a commercial sprayer is the pressure. They can get into the nooks and crannies. Good Luck, Nancy