Tree Dripping Sticky Sap with Flies and Bees? Aphid Honeydew

Sticky Car, Flies, and Bees Under a Tree? Aphids Are Feeding Above

A tree showering sticky droplets that attract flies, bees, and wasps is infested with aphids. They suck sap and excrete sugar-rich honeydew. Ants often tend them. The honeydew grows black sooty mold on surfaces below.

Control for Large Trees

• Systemic soil drench: Imidacloprid, dinotefuran, or acephate applied at base in spring. Most practical for tall trees.
• Contact sprays: Only if canopy is reachable. Use horticultural oil, soap, or pyrethroids with thorough coverage.
• Ant control: Sticky bands or baits to disrupt farming.

Sooty Mold Cleanup

Wash cars, furniture, and decks with mild detergent. Mold disappears once honeydew stops.

Don't spray the tree canopy from the ground—it's ineffective. Treat the soil.