Question
QUESTION: Hi!  I have a weeping willow that was planted about 6 weeks ago.  We planted it as the directions said, added plant stakes, and topped it off with root stimulator.  We noticed weeks after planting it that a few of the branches had leaves that were turning brown and the branches have become brittle and dead.  We have also noticed some soft spots on the trunk.  This could poor handling from the nursery, but we don't know.  We water this tree A LOT!  We have also noticed our newly planted crate mrytle having the same symptoms.  We also water this tree a LOT.  What do you think?  We were told to treat it with a bordeaux mixture to kill any fungus.  Help us!!

ANSWER: The willow can handle the water.  The crepe myrtle does not need quite as much.  Are the soft spots you describe oval and small.  Can they be scraped off with your fingernail and do they have liquid inside when crushed.  If this is the case, then the plant has scale insects.  The bordeaux wont hurt anything, but I doubt if has a fungus.  It may also be transplant shock.  Take another close look and let me know your results.  Thanks.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I re-examined the tree.  Yes, the soft spots are oval, small and can be scraped off with fingernail, but there is no liquid coming out of it.  besides shock, any other thoughts?  We noticed that all the limbs have yellow leaves that are dieing whcih means the limbs are dieing too.  If it is shcok what do we do?  As far as the crate mrytle it's doing the same thing and both we potted plants.  The crate mrytle we dug up and replanted is doing great aside from the white fungus on a few leaves, but we can easily cut that off to get the right treatment.  

Thank you so much for your advice and any help you can give me is greatly appreciated!

Answer
OK--- the problem sounds like scale insects.  They will suck the juice out of the plant and cause yellow leaves, defoliation and even plant death.  Go buy Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide and mix according to label instructions.  The product is poured around the base of the plant and is taken up systemically.  It will kill the bugs within a week or so.  It also provides up to 8 months of protection from reinfestation.  Good Luck.