Washington: hornbeam discharge

Discussion in 'Outdoor Gardening in the Pacific Northwest' started by danteditullio, Aug 15, 2011.

  1. danteditullio

    danteditullio Member

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    Location:
    Vancouver, WA USA
    We have five hornbeam trees (approx.8 years old) that this year are discharging an invisible, very sticky substance to anything below (including our hot tub). One source indicates this could be the work of aphids, but the discharge seems so pervasive, and I've not observed any aphids on the trees. Any ideas on what is causing this?
    Thanks,
    Dante

    We do have aphids!
     
    Last edited: Aug 15, 2011
    danteditullio, Aug 15, 2011
    #1
  2. David Payne Terra Nova

    David Payne Terra Nova Active Member

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    Port Coquitlam, B.C. Canada
    How tall are the trees? Have you noticed any ants? Another thought I have is, is the ground around them overly wet? (I'm thinking a gummosis type of a discharge like cherry trees can get.)
     
    David Payne Terra Nova, Aug 15, 2011
    #2
  3. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Sounds very much like honeydew (i.e., aphid pee)
     
    Michael F, Aug 16, 2011
    #3
  4. danteditullio

    danteditullio Member

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    Thanks for the input. I do believe I have an aphid invasion. Am working with an arborist on this, but any "home remedies" will be appreciated.
     
    danteditullio, Aug 16, 2011
    #4
  5. roneill

    roneill Active Member 10 Years

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    ladybugs are effective for controlling aphids, not to mention fun!
     
    roneill, Aug 16, 2011
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