Aphid Honeydew on Quaking Aspen: Sticky Leaves and Crystallization

Three 3-year-old quaking aspens in Reno, NV exude shiny liquid onto ground with leaf crystallization and unprecedented leaf drop. Ortho Garden Disease Control (chlorothalonil) failed.

Diagnosis

The shiny liquid is honeydew from aphid feeding. The "crystallization" is likely dried honeydew or sooty mold. Chlorothalonil treats fungi, not insects—hence failure.

Solution

Use Atomic Grow to raise leaf Brix (sugar content), making trees less attractive to aphids. This organic product improves overall tree health, naturally deterring pests. Apply to all trees and shrubs for comprehensive benefit.