Question
I hope you're the right person to ask. I live in S. Louisiana and p;anted young
oleander trees last year. This year they've become black on the bark and some
leaves. How can I fix this problem or should I just go to a local nursery?

Answer
Phyllis
Sounds like you have had a recent manifestation of aphids or scale due to a nutritional unbalance from any number of things.  The black stuff you are seeing is probably Black Sooty Mold.  This is the excrement of these sap sucking insects and its difficult to remove.  It will also keep your leaves from synthesizing light.  You could use Neem Oil or a new product that is making some huge gains in this area.

Go to www.atomicgrow.net  You will be able to order this product there and it will not only clean up your problems.  It will increase your blooms and give your Oleanders super resistance and nutritional balance.

Good Luck

Jmes