Q.Ficus panda plants have developed infections, leaves shed and white spongy clusters seen on branch stems, as can be seen from the
photographs attached. Observed for the past one month. Looking for help on this please.
I suspect a pest problem and the white spongy clusters may be egg cases. But I'm a US and Thailand based arborist and not familiar with common pests and diseases for ficus in Bangalore.
You may get some advise through the following link to a university extension service. They are farming oriented, but I recently had an email exchange with a brilliant entomologist there (insect specialist) who has studied neem oil extract products.
Be sure to water adequately during dry hot season. From the photos the soil looks dry and that could be part of the problem. Drought stressed plants are more susceptible to pest and disease issues. A layer of mulch on the soil surface can help retain soil moisture.
http://www.uasbangalore.edu.in/index.php/extension/directorate-at-a-glance
