Several weeks ago I noticed the leaves on my purple flowering plum tree were thinning, and some had holes in them as if eaten by some insect. I also found lots of "brown bumps" on the limbs that scraped off easily with my fingernail or a broom. After researching my problem on the web, I think I've determined that "scales" have invaded my tree. I'm pretty sure it's not Japanese beetles (I see none, plus I have yearly applications of Grubex applied on the lawn). I see no other visible insects. Last week I sprayed the tree with a systemic insect killer and brushed off as many "bumps" as my broom could reach. Since then, more leaves on the tree seem to be dying. My questions are these: The directions on the systemic insect killer container said "do not apply to flowering crabapple". Would this have included my flowering plum? And, if so, did I do more damage than good by spraying the tree? Should I do a second application 7-10 days later as suggested in the directions (to kill scales)? Is there some other product I should apply to get rid of these scales and not harm the tree? Will my plum tree recover if I ever do get rid of these pests, or should I consider it a "goner"? Is my analysis of the problem totally off-base?

:alarm: :alarm: :alarm: Bumble bee nest (very active) 5'-6' inside my crawl space entry. Must get in to service well pump and equipment. Not possible to get around the nest. The only solutions I have thought of so far are 1) Sit by the entry and kill them one by one with spray or badminton racquet, and 2) Burn the place down. Would appreciate some sound advice on this stinging problem. Larry