Indoor,leaves Are Developing Dense Gel ‘crystals’ On Veins. Don\’t Look Like Insect Eggs.What Are They?

Question

I\’m an experienced gardener, growing sweet potatoes indoors,first time.I thought these were insect eggs on the leaves,but now I\’m not so sure. The \’gel\’ particles are mostly on the top,larger leaf veins,never on the stems,and develop fast in <12 hours. The only insects I\'ve found on my plants were a few green caterpillars, which are now gone. The leaf area in the picture is <1\" square. I\'m applying bacillus T, and synthetic pyrethrin,with no effect on the stuff. I can\'t use anything too toxic bc the leaves are for salad, etc. The store-bought,orange variety shows the most of these particles, but the Okinawa is not far behind it. Is this just normal sp growth that I shouldn\'t worry about? I'm wondering if this is just sweet potato metabolite of some kind? Thanks! Rick

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Answer 1

They can do this for a few reasons, actually! The most common will be very bright, synthetic light, and over watering. Sweet potatoes thrive on neglect, just fine! Heat and insect problems can be an issue, too, but it sounds like you have already treated for the most common pests.

If you do not use synthetic lighting, then I would suggest getting the humidity of the room up and getting the air moving. This can be an issue with dry air, and poor circulation, if you are sure that the plant receives the ideal amount of light.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/sweet-potato/sweet-potato-with-white-leaves.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/sweet-potato