30 Year Old Camellia Tree Is Turning Yellow/Brown on Half the Tree

Question

This camellia tree has been healthy and bright till this spring. Now 1/2 of the tree is yellowing on the leaves and flowers, and the underside of the leaves have a few clear mite-like creatures crawling around.   What do we do? How to identify the criters?

Answer 1

It sounds like you have aphids. I would treat the plant with neem oil. It is safe for people, pets and beneficial insects but very effective on aphids and similar small pests that suck on the leaves of plants.

These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/homemade-aphid-control-a-natural-way-to-kill-aphids.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm