How to save my Albany Woolly bush?

[SEABEE]

I have Googled this plant that is eating the bark of my Albany Woolly Bush and slowly killing it as the bark is removed. In my research I have come to the conclusion that it may be a spider mite and probably the black spider mite. There are small black spots within the brown crumble cover.

I have used Richgro Bug Killa systemic insecticide a week ago. But I haven't noticed any change however it may be too early for the insecticide to have an effect. 

I am planning to hose the infestation off the trees to prevent further damage. 

Can anyone identify the insect? Secondly is the action I am taking appropriate?

Many Thanks

SeaBee

[suzanneb]

I have the same problem but have not been able to confirm that it is due to black spider mites. My local nursery thinks they are tea tree moth caterpillars. So I have been on a search and destroy mission. Found a moth a few days ago and today I found a caterpillar inside the fras of dead bark, leaves etc. I am trying manual removal and neem oil. Also have found a lady beetle and another beetle which I think are my soldiers so I have left them be. The neem oil I think will be ineffective due to the covering over the caterpillar so cutting out heavily infected branches and manual removal seems to be the way forward

 

   

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @suzanneb. It's great to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about plant care.

I note that @SEABEE managed to get confirmation that it was indeed tea tree webbing moth caterpillars. They've provided some helpful information at the bottom of page one of this discussion supplied by the Pest and Disease Information Service on the control of the insect.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell