Camellia Sooty Mold: Insect Infestation Indicator

20-year-old camellia gets black coating on leaves yearly (looks sprayed). Plant blooms but losing more leaves this year.

Diagnosis

Wipe test: if black comes off on wet paper towel, it's sooty mold – fungus growing on insect honeydew. Indicates aphids, scale, or whiteflies on this plant or above it.

Action

• Read sooty mold fact sheet.
• Inspect leaf undersides and stems for insects.
• Treat insects with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
• Wash off mold.

Controlling insects eliminates the honeydew source, stopping mold.