Mealy bugs in tree.

Interesting- I have an apple tree which is covered in mealy bug and I've never seen it before. I sprayed it with Sprayday Greenfly killer plus but it had no effect whatsoever. Possibly it wasn't strong enough. The trouble is unless the air is very still you get it drifting in your face.
I also would like to know what to do!!!!!

Hi Celandine.Are you sure its not apple wooly aphids?They look really similar to mealy bugs but pick on aplle trees.I knew that the ants were aphid farming my tree as I'd seen them waltz up and down the trunk but actually grabbed a chunk of white goo off a branch and had a good look today.The sprayday wouldn't have touched it as it states that because of their waxy coating the only thing that kills them is a systemic insecticide.I can only imagine how much its going to cost to drench the whole tree ,let alone get up there to spray.I have a pressure spray but it may have to be a mask and goggles.

Oh dear - sorry to hear that. What a job you both have!

This week I noticed my old Bramley apple tree has apple woolly aphid on its lower branches. I believe removing the aphid with a cloth soaked in methylated spirits is effective ( must get some) but maybe your plants are too big for this to be a viable option.

Hi Xela,yes I'd seen that advice this morning when I had time to research it .It sounds worth a try but I might rope in hubby's services for the top half of the tree.
The organic way would be to use lacewing larvea and fit a greaseband to the tree.I can afford the grease band but the larvae are expensive especially since you have to then buy them a house.The total came to £60!! so I think I'll try the meths first,but will fit a grease band to upset the ants.