This fall start to spray the tree with dormant oil.............that will smother the bugs........again in the spring spray as soon as possible.........once the buds come on...........and they open I only spray the trunk..............that should help. Can't spray the buds once they open and because of the bees. If you are still having problems, you might need to trim that tree. We have a black topped driveway near ours so I don't notice if it the tree itself or insects.