A sticky coating on hydrangea leaves not only looks unsightly, but is also a sign that the ornamental shrub is not doing well. Find out here what can cause sticky leaves and what you can do about it.
What do sticky leaves on my hydrangeas mean?
Sticky leaves indicate a pest infestation of the hydrangeas. These are usually aphids or mealybugs that have settled on the hydrangeas. Without counteracting measures, the lice multiply quickly and ultimately cause the plant to die. When combating it, you should first resort to home remedies before using chemical agents.
What does it mean when my hydrangea leaves are sticky?
A sticky coating on the leaves of hydrangeas usually indicates apest infestation. Aphids leave sticky excretions on the leaves and mealybug infestations also cause sticky spots to appear as a result of sucking on the plants.
How can I prevent sticky leaves on hydrangeas?
The best prevention against louse infestation ishe althy, resilient plantsMake sure that you provide your hydrangeas with sufficient nutrients through the correct fertilization and that the pH value of the Soil is low so that they can absorb it easily. This way the plant can protect itself well from pests. If your hydrangeas still become infected with lice, you can prevent the pest from spreading by removing affected areas immediately.
How can I treat sticky leaves on hydrangeas?
You can fight a light infestation of lice with a strongwater jet. This causes the lice to fall off the hydrangeas and die. If the lice have already multiplied heavily on the hydrangeas, treatment with arapeseed oil-soap mixture that you spray on the hydrangea will help. Alternatively, you can try to get rid of the pests with a mixture of milk and water or nettle manure.
Tip
Black leaves as a sign of pest infestation
In addition to the sticky coating, blackening of the leaves can also be a sign of pests. When watering and caring for your hydrangeas, ensure he althy leaf growth so that you can act quickly in the event of an infestation.
