Branch Dieback and small black spots

[Brdfprey]

Hello, I reported this larch before buds broke and it was healthy. It is potted in a mix of perlite, and pumice.

Today I noticed some dead branches near the apex. I did not notice any pests, other than fine webs.

There was also some black spots on the healthy foliage. (I had noticed this black spot about a week ago, and as I was having small caterpillars attack I used Safers; a general insecticide/fungicide).

Any further information or observations would be helpful.

I am in Toronto, Canada.

 

[NOZZLE HEAD]

Those black spots look like aphids to me.

I see them regularly on new growth in commercial Christmas tree plantations.

Most of the safer brand products are oils or soaps, and complete coverage and repeat applications are necessary for eradication.