The sticky stuff falling from trees is actually not sap, as many people believe. It’s something much grosser and more unpleasant – the secretions of aphids. These tiny insects, often referred to as plant lice, feed on the sap of trees by piercing the plant’s tissue with their mouthparts and sucking out its juices. As a result of this feeding process, they excrete a substance called honeydew.
Honeydew is a sticky and smelly liquid that is produced by the aphids as a byproduct of their feeding. It is composed of the excess sugars and water that the aphids cannot fully digest. This sticky substance then drips or falls from the trees, creating a mess and potentially causing damage to anything beneath them.
The presence of honeydew is a clear indication that a tree is infested with aphids. These pests are often found in large numbers, and their collective feeding can heavily stress or even kill a tree if the infestation is severe enough. The honeydew not only coats the tree and its surroundings but also serves as a breeding ground for mold and fungi, further exacerbating the issues caused by the aphids.
Dealing with an aphid infestation and the resulting honeydew can be a challenging task for gardeners and landscapers. There are several methods that can be employed to control aphids and prevent the sticky substance from continuing to fall from trees.
1. Natural predators: Encouraging natural predators of aphids, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and birds, can help keep their populations in check. These beneficial insects and animals feed on aphids and can help reduce their numbers.
2. Insecticidal soaps and oils: Applying insecticidal soaps or oils to the affected trees can help suffocate and kill the aphids. These products are relatively safe for the environment and can be effective in controlling the infestation.
3. Horticultural oils: These oils, such as neem oil, can be sprayed on the tree to smother and kill the aphids. They are also effective against other pests and can help prevent further infestations.
4. Pruning: Pruning away heavily infested branches can help remove a significant portion of the aphids and reduce their overall population. However, this method may not be suitable for all situations and should be done with caution.
5. Water pressure: Using a strong stream of water, such as from a hose, to spray the aphids off the tree can provide temporary relief. However, it may not be a long-term solution as the aphids can quickly return.
It is important to note that addressing the underlying cause of the aphid infestation is crucial in preventing future occurrences. Factors such as inadequate tree care, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental stress can make trees more susceptible to aphids. Taking care of the overall health of the tree, providing proper fertilization, and maintaining good cultural practices can help prevent aphids and the sticky honeydew they produce.
The sticky substance falling from trees is not sap but rather the secretions of aphids known as honeydew. This sticky and smelly liquid is a byproduct of the aphids’ feeding on the tree’s sap. It can cause damage to the tree and its surroundings, and controlling the aphid infestation is necessary to prevent further issues. Various methods, including natural predators, insecticidal soaps and oils, pruning, and water pressure, can be employed to control aphids and minimize the sticky substance falling from trees.
