By Sallyphelps
Kent,
United Kingdom 
Hi, wonder if anyone can identify the disease I have on my Cotoneasters. The branches are turning white, with the odd yellow patch on them. They almost look frosty. I can't seem to find out what this can be and how and if I can treat it. Many thanks.
3 Jul, 2013
Answers
If the branches are white but the leaves unaffected it sounds very much like the disease that killed my prosanthera. I did spray it with a fungicide, which is probably all you can do, but regrettably it didn't make any difference. i do hope it isn't that. If you put a pic on maybe someone can identify it.
3 Jul, 2013
Thanks for your replies. I have attached a photo as suggested.
3 Jul, 2013
This is what mine was like but have no longer got it .
And so glad we dug it out.
3 Jul, 2013
Looks like lichen to me, perfectly natural, and indicative of clean air. Often grows on slow growing stems of many shrubs
3 Jul, 2013
I agree with Worthy - lichen.
4 Jul, 2013
I also think its lichen. shouldnt kill the plant though.
4 Jul, 2013
Thank you all for your replies.
4 Jul, 2013
Yes, that's not like what I had.
4 Jul, 2013
i,d say its mildew.
3 Jul, 2013