Camellia

Question

The leaves are covered with a hard black coating. What is it and how do I clear it?

Answer 1

This is sooty mold. It is a byproduct of a pest infestation, likely aphids or scale. This article will help you with getting rid of it: This is sooty mold. It is a byproduct of a pest infestation, likely aphids or scale. This article will help you with getting rid of it: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/how-to-get-rid-of-sooty-mold.htm Neem oil can help as well. In addition to treating whatever pests may be affecting the plant, it is also a good fungicide. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm