Question
I have a friend who has an oak tree in her yard and we noticed small black bumps in a row on the lower limbs.  Is this an isect or disease? I can provide a picture if needed. Should we cut the limbs or spray?

Answer
The small black bumps are most likely scale insects.  They are oval shaped and can be scraped off with your fingernail and have liquid inside when squashed.  They do not move.  Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide can be found at Home Depot.  The product is mixed with water and poured on the soil around the base of the tree.  The product is taken up systemically and will kill the bugs within a couple of weeks.  It also provides protection from reinfestation for up to year.  This is a good product.  Good Luck.