Weeping Plants Leave Sticky Residue

Question

I have an indoor ivy and fern that both tend to weep and leave a sticky residue. During the summer months this residue attracts small ants. Is there a way to stop these plants from weeping? The residue has also stained the paint where the leaves are touching the wall.

Answer 1

Look for scale insects along the stem and on the leaves. That is the number one problem with many houseplant species. If scale is not the problem, you may have spider mites feeding on the leaf undersides. Look for little webbing on the leaf edges. Both these pests secrete honeydew, which is the sticky substance the ants are attracted to. Getting rid of the pests will help with the ants. Mist the foliage with distilled water at least three or four times a week. Neem oil is aso effective.

For help in dealing with these pests, here are some articles that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/spider-mite-detection-and-spider-mite-natural-control.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm