What Are Tiny Pepper-like Droppings From My Maple Trees?

Question

They are sticking to my furniture and cars. Also, should I try planting impatiens this spring as all died last year due to, I’m told, a fungus. Thanks for any help.

Answer 1

The following article is about downy mildew, a new fungus for regular and double impatiens that is deadly: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/impatiens_downy_mildew_a_curse_and_opportunity_for_your_garden

As far as the dropping from your maple, it's most likely from an insect or larvae eating the leaves. You would need to identify and tr3eat. It could be pieces of the spent bloom, just guessing.