Schefflera Sticky Leaves: Honeydew from Scale or Mealybugs

Mature schefflera moved outdoors: sticky substance on leaves, tiny white string-like objects (immobile).

Diagnosis

Honeydew = insect excrement. Likely:

• Scale: Round raised bumps (1–2 mm) on leaf undersides.
• Mealybugs: White, fuzzy (Q-tip ends).
• Aphids: Mobile.

Treatment

1. Photo for ID, or take leaves to garden center.
2. Few insects: manual removal.
3. Many: Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub Insect Control (imidacloprid soil drench, blue bottle) — systemic, broad spectrum.
4. Alternative: Insecticidal soap.

Expert insight provided by Steve.