Q.Bird of Paradise Houseplant
My Bird of Paradise keeps getting a sticky substance on the leaves. What is it? Do I harm the plant if I wash it off? What would you recommend if it is ok to wash it off?
Alisma
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Answered on January 25, 2017
The sticky substance could be honeydew, which is a secretion of small plant-feeding insects such as aphids and scale bugs:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-honeydew.htm
Check the plant (and surrounding houseplants) for any insects. The best way to get rid of honeydew is to control the insect pests- you can find information on control options by following the links in the article above. Washing the plant is fine, and it might knock off some of the pests too.
Was this answer useful?
00