Question
I have a little gem magnolia tree planted in the ground,in full sun at my south carolina home.Almost all the leaves are covered in black powder. It does not wipe off but  will  scrape off with your fingernail.The leaf is shiny and healthy looking underneath.Its even on the branches.Please help me identify and cure this problem. Thank you

Answer
Hi Phil, I know exactly what your problem is.  It is a scale and the only way to get it off is wiping it off.  There is a product called Atomic Grow that will get rid of the black and make your tree healthy organically.  It will take some time for the black to wash off but rain and spraying will eventually correct it.  The new growth will come out green and clean and with upkeep you will not have the problem again.  kathy