Q.What is this translucent goo?
Recently mulched area in Michigan City, Indiana had this goo everywhere. Purple coneflowers, black eyed susans, feather read grass, and vinca minor surrounding goo.
I believe this to be Slime Mold.
It can appear suddenly in moist warm weather.
It is commonly found in mulch that contains a lot of hardwood.
It can be pink, brown, orange, tan and other colors. New hardwood mulch is the perfect feeding ground for this mold.
As the mulch ages it is less likely to support the mold.
You do not need to treat it, simply remove with a shovel and dispose of.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/fungus-lichen/what-is-slime-mold-slime.htm