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?

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
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.