It sounds like you have a problem with aphids or other sucking insect on your
hackberry tree. If they build up large enough populations, the resulting
honeydew dropping, can be a nuisance. This sticky exudate is the byproduct
of their feeding. Where it falls, the plants, lawn furniture and car windows
can be quite sticky. If it stays around for any length of time, the honeydew
will turn black--which is black sooty mold. It only grows where honeydew is.
While aphids or other sucking insects won't adversely affect your hackberry
tree, they can create a mess. Try using a strong blast of water on the lower
limbs of the tree to knock down some of the insects. You could also spray
the lower limbs with an insecticide to cut down on those dropping the
honeydew directly. We have had a great growing season for both plants and
pests, so it may be why it is worse this year. Removing the exudate off your
plant foliage will be more challenging than on patio furniture and cars.
With the latter you can use soap and water. For the plants you might try a
light, warm soapy solution and then hose it down.
(August) We live in St. Francis County. We have a hackberry tree in our back
yard that is about 50 years old. It seems to be dropping sticky droplets on
everything. Some of our other plants such as caladiums, hibiscus, and some of
our ferns are covered with the residue and are showing some harmful effects. We
have tried washing the plants with plain water but the residue is really
stubborn. What is it, and why have we never had this problem before. Do you have
any
suggestions as how to clean our plants. The stuff blows in the breeze and is on
all of our yard furniture, cars etc. Help!