Question
Greetings, My Tri-colored Beech tree (planted last year)has a white, sticky, mold (?) growing on the underside of 25% of its leaves.....ants seem attracted to the sappy like stuff....looks kinda fuzzy, not under all leaves....what do you think it is , should I try to treat it or is it natural....Best Regards...Wally

Answer
Wally  I think that what you are seeing may be powdery mildew.  Its not terribly bad and will probably cure itself over time.  The plant is releasing sap as a defense mechanism and is a good sign that your tree is working properly.  The ants are attracted to this sap as it is full of natural sugars.

James