Sticky Dripping from Crape Myrtle: Aphid Honeydew, Not Sap

A 20-year-old crape myrtle drips a sticky mist, especially after bees visited. It's messy on cars. Owner asks if it's sap and how to stop it.

Real Cause: Aphid Honeydew

The "sap" is honeydew—excrement of aphids (plant lice) feeding on leaves. Bees were attracted to the sugar.

Quick Knockdown

• Strong water blast dislodges aphids (rips mouthparts, killing many).
• Compost tea with orange oil works better.

Long-Term Fix: Address Tree Stress

Aphids target stressed trees. Check for:

• Water issues (too much or too little)
• Wrong/excessive fertilizer
• Soil compaction
• Herbicide contamination
• Deep planting: Root flare must be visible above ground.

Correct underlying stress to prevent recurrence.