Question
I have a fica tree that has these little white round balls at the underside base of the leaves and the tree is loosing leaves in abundance.  What are they and how do I get rid of them?  I don't think they are mealy bugs as I've had them on other plants and they are flat and scaly.  Thanks.

Answer
Judy,

If they are flat and scaly they are probably an insect called scale. The easiest way to get rid of them is to pick up a bottle of Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub Protec & Feed. It will run around $20.00 at Lowes or Home Depot but it is a systemic, you just mix it with water according to the instructions and water the trees. It will kill scale or meLY BUGS and keep insects away for a year. Good luck.

Darlene