What is honeydew?
The sticky black substance beneath Lime trees and Sycamores is called honeydew. This is produced by Aphids feeding on the trees sap. The sap has a limited amount of nutrients and therefore the Aphids need to digest a lot of it, the bi-product of this excessive feeding is droplets of honeydew. When produced on a large scale it can cause damage to car paintwork, garden furniture and patios etc. The honeydew will reduce through the summer as the natural predators of the Aphids increase. However, pruning can limit the foliage of the tree or clear the effected area. Please call for advise on solutions.