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<pre>> We are in the Hunter Valley and have a mix of Corregiola and Nevadillo
trees 20 months old.
>
> Some of the Corregiola trees are exhibiting leaf loss, blackened trunks
and leaves that are turned back towards the trunks. These trees have an oily
appearance on the trunks which we originally thought was due to an oil
sparay we administered about a month ago. BUT we sprayed all the trees and
only a few are showing these symptoms.
>
> The stakes of these trees, which are plastic covered metal, also exhibit
this "oiliness".
>
> One tree has lost nearly all its leaves. Its immediate neighbour is losing
leaves fast (they turn black before dropping off), but other trees in the
vicinity of these two seem fine.
>
> Elsewhere in the orchard other trees seem to be exhibiting the beginnings
of this problem....leaves are yellowing, trunks darkening and leaves folding
back.
>
> Does anyone have any idea as to what could be happening here ??
>
> All constructive input greatly appreciated, particularly ways to prevent
this spreading.
>
> Thanks
>
> Alan & Judith Leslie
> "Woonona"
> Bulga
> Hunter Valley, NSW
>

Alan & Judith,

It sounds to me like you might have the first stages of a scale infection,
with the scale insects exuding honeydew, which can be oily and sticky, and
attracts sooty mould. If you see ants crawling all over the tress, then this
would pretty well confirm it.

You might want to spray the trees liberally with white oil with a drop of
Malaton in the mix. This should stop the spread with a couple of sprays.

I'm in Pokolbin, so if you would like me to nip out and have a look, please
give me a ring on 4998 7311.

Regards,

Mike Wilson
Twin Trees Cottages.
</pre>
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