Question
Hi David,

when I pruned my Petunia, I noticed that the (hairy) stem and leaves are sticky, and few insects are glued and died.
So I assume that this is some sort of Petunia's defense system, is it true ?

If it's true, then we would never see Petunia plants attacked and died because of mealy bugs, aphids, and spider mite. Have you ever heard from someone saying his/her Petunia under attack from mealy bugs, aphids or spider mite and ask for solution ?

The only thing that killed my Petunia last time was a bird playing around and breaking the fragile stem.

Rgds,

Ari

Answer
Petunias have a naturally sticky sap.  They are usually resistant to most insect pests.  I have not received requests for solutions to insect problems with petunias.  I would fertilize lightly and just watch the new growth for any possible problems.  Everything should be OK.  Good Luck.