Crepe Myrtle with Sticky Leaves and Dead Branches: Honeydew and Sooty Mold

Two-year-old crepe myrtle in Tomball, TX has sticky, oily leaves (half the canopy) and dead branches with blooms. No prior disease matches.

Diagnosis

Sticky coating = honeydew from sap-feeding insects (aphids, scale, whiteflies). Blackening = sooty mold growing on honeydew. Dead branches may be unrelated (physical injury or drought).

Action Plan

• Inspect leaf undersides and stems for insects.
• Spray horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control pests.
• Check base of dead branches for bark damage.
• Ensure adequate soil moisture during drought.

See sooty mold fact sheet for details.