A fuzzy white substance on one branch of my beech tree about 30 feet above the grownd is causing a deposit of sap or something(it attracts bees)on the pavement below.The tree appears healthy otherwise and has produced a bumper crop of nuts this year. Is this some kind of fungus? Will it spread or weaken the tree? If anyone knows what it might be and how to treat or who could diagnose it, please let me know.Elizabeth Lurie

Reply to post by Lurie, on September 18, 2000 at 23:26:37:

The link to Silvics is a valuable resource, I've found. I suspect you are seeing some type of sucking insect. Look at the section under damaging agents. You could search on the known pests to find if any of them may be what you are looking at(I like to use Google). There are some diseases that may be introduced by insects into beech trees. Perhaps you have a sample of the "white fuzz" you could show to a local nursery or extension agent for identification.

Reply to post by Lurie, on September 18, 2000 at 23:26:37:

This sounds like woolly beech aphid. Although it can lead to dieback of individual branches, it is not generally considered a major pest. If you can reach the branch, simply wipe or wash the aphids from the bark.

Reply to post by Russ Carlson, on September 18, 2000 at 23:26:37:

If your Beech does have the woolly beech aphid I would be a little worried about secondary attack by fungus. There has been a few problems in Eastern Canada and U.S, with Beech Bark Fungus, this fungus is usually a secondary disease that invades beech trees infected with the woolly beech aphid and can spread quickly if not addressed. It attacks both young and old trees and has caused major damage in urban and rural areas. I would definately have it looked at by certified arborist in your area.