| I have a recently transplanted (2/99) Golden Weeping willow tree that's 3" in trunk and 18' tall. She's doing lovely after the trasnplna shock, nice full leaves, correct fertilizer, and 1+" /week of H2O. Its been very dry in last three months, with less than 5" rain cummlative. I noticed one lower leaf having little spherical brown balls (1mm diameter) totaling 7, on the underside of this leaf. Nothing else appears to be anywhere else on the tree but 3 or 4 stink bugs. The spheres have a conical opening in the very center. What are they, are they harmful and should be removed? If yes, how. I was informed sink bugs would not hurt the tree. Love your advice column...please advise, my wife loves this tree of tranquility as the Japanese call it. |
| What a beautiful tree! Unfortunately based on your description I am not sure what you have found on the leaf and with willows there is quite a range of possible causes, some more benign and some more serious. You might wish to take a sample to your County Extension (375-5876) for a positive identification and suggested controls. I hope it is nothing too serious. In the meantime, be sure to continue to give that tree ample water while it is becoming established. |
