Dwarf Lemon Tree

Question

What causes this tree to be sticky or sappy? It is about 10 years old and has never done this before. It was in full bloom but now the flowers and the new lemons are falling off. The fruit is turning yellow then drops. Thank you.

Answer 1

It has a pest, most likely scale or aphids. The stickiness is from the honeydew in which these insects secrete. Neem oil will take care of the problem. These articles will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/homemade-aphid-control-a-natural-way-to-kill-aphids.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm