Question
hello David-my hedge is 25 years old.  the last couple of years portions of it are getting white bumps up the stalks and then dying.  last year i took one to a  nursery they said it was diseased (sorry can't remember the name) They said to spray horticulture oil on the hedge x during the year.  i did, well now it's pretty much dead. i will cut it down and the new growth should come back, right?The disease seems to be spreading down the block.  neighbors are not gardeners and won't do anything i know. my question is what can i do to the hedge on the other side OD my property - it's starting to do the same thing,  thanks tons Liz

Answer
The white bumps you describe are most likely scale insects. They can be scraped off with your fingernail and will have liquid inside when squashed.  They are oval shaped and slighty raised off the bark of the plants and they do not move.  They suck the plant juices and can kill the plant if not controlled.  The best treatment option is a product called Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide sold at Home Depot, Wal Mart, Etc.  The product is mixed with water and poured on the soil around the base of the plants.  It is taken up systemically and will kill the bugs within a week or so.  It also provides protection from reinfestation for up to a year.  There will be sticker shock when you buy this stuff, but it is very good.  Measure the height and width of each plant so you can figure out how much to buy, since it is dosed by the size of the plant.  I hope this helps fix your problem.  Thanks.