What is a white cotton similar to fungus on an apple tree that when squeezed is red inside and how can you treat it? the fungus is more on the branches it looks like cotton...
the fungus is more on the branches it looks like cotton wool and when you squeeze it it lookes as if it is bleeding and it is unbelievably sticky
i contemplate Elizabeth is right on this one...mealy bug. we had it on an apple tree within our garden, tried everything and nothing worked. we cut the majority of the tree down to the first fork and vanished it. its now growing healthily, remains to be see if it will fruit again though.
Sounds close to some species of aphid.
Or maybe fruit fly which is a much more serious business.
Try the aphid first. Spray with white grease all over (leaves and all) and repeat it surrounded by a fortnight. It's a very safe and sound spray to use if you have pets or kids.
If it doesn't fix it, you might enjoy fruit fly. Your garden centre can go you a trap for the flies that is eco friendly. Won't procure any fruit this year though.
All plants are susceptible to disease if they are weak. Strengthen the tree by removing weed and grass from the base, and nurture it with a apt layer of cow dirt and/or a water base plant tonic - Yates makes one.
Fix the basis and the problem will reduce. Good luck.
Answers: I think from your description it is mealy bugs.
but be cautious with the diazinon as a overdose can arm the trees (and yourself). Also check if it is allowed for amateur gardeners.
For non chemical solutions you can try a direct biological control using Mealybug destroyer (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri) a brand of beetle that feed of them, Green lacewing (Chrysoperla carnea) or Leptomastrix dactylopii, a caring of parasitic tiny wasp laying eggs on the bug. All are commercially available (try the web to find suppliers near your place.)