Mealybug infestation on outdoor tree

Question: The tree in front of my home is infested with mealy bugs. We have sprayed it with bifenthrin twice and I check it daily. I just found 3 new egg clusters. I’m not sure what else to do as I cannot spray the entire tree and it is too big to inspect.

responder: Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied July 17, 2024, 2:03 PM EDT
response: Hello Charise Would you please attach a couple more pictures, on from far enough back to see the whole tree, and one of a branch showing 4-5 feet length with the foliage? Knowing the species and overall size will help our expert.

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 17, 2024, 2:21 PM EDT
response: On Wed, Jul 17, 2024 at 2:03 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 17, 2024, 2:28 PM EDT
response: It blooms magenta flowers in spring if that helps.   On Wed, Jul 17, 2024 at 2:03 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 17, 2024, 4:37 PM EDT
response: Hello,  Based on the images that I have seen, there appear to be other issues. Dealing with multiple issues on a crab apple tree can be challenging, especially when the tree is large. Here’s a comprehensive approach based on the information from educational sources:  Apple Scab:  Fungicides: Proper timing of fungicide sprays is crucial for controlling apple scab. Expect to apply two well-timed fungicides in the spring.  Resistant Varieties: Planting disease-resistant varieties is the best long-term solution to manage apple scab.  Sanitation: Clean up fallen leaves to reduce the source of infection for the next season.  More information is at these links:  Apple scab - Integrated Pest Management (msu.edu)  Apple scab of apples and crabapples | UMN Extension  Bark Splitting:  Wound Care: Tracing around the wound with a sharp knife to remove loose bark may stimulate the growth of the cambium and speed healing.  Avoid Late Fertilization: Avoid fertilizing late in the growing season, as this may promote new growth and predispose the tissue to winter injuries.  More information at this link:   barksplitting.pdf (cornell.edu)  Mealy Bugs:  Insecticidal Soaps: Contact sprays using insecticidal soaps are effective against the mealybug crawler stage, provided coverage is thorough. You may need two to three treatments at 10–14-day intervals.  Beneficial Insects: Use insect growth regulators when beneficial insects are present to avoid harming them.  More information at this link:   Mealybugs – Wisconsin Horticulture  Since you mentioned the tree is too large to inspect or spray entirely, you might consider contacting a certified arborist or a tree care service. They have the equipment and expertise to treat large trees effectively and safely. Additionally, they can provide a proper assessment and ongoing care plan tailored to your tree’s specific needs. Managing these issues is often a multi-step and ongoing process, so regular monitoring and care are essential. You can consult a local certified arborist for a more detailed onsite assessment and personalized advice. To find a certified arborist in your Zip Code, go to this link:  Find an Arborist (treesaregood.org)  If you want a confirmed and precise identification of the problem, you can send all your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab. The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options. Their email is <personal data hidden> - Please include your name – The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent. FYI – The lab may also ask for additional images.  Their website is at this link:   Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  Their Contact Information is at this link:  Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  This link will explain the details of submitting a sample to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:  Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  I hope this helps!