Sticky Residue on Aloe? It's Honeydew from Mealybugs or Scale

Identifying the Sticky Substance

The sticky crystals on your aloe leaves and floor are honeydew, excreted by sap-sucking insects—either mealybugs or scale. Both are common on aloes.

Mealybugs

Look like tiny bits of white cotton in leaf axils and stem crevices.

Scale Insects

Appear as slightly raised, dark bumps on leaves and stems; they scrape off with a fingernail.

Effective Treatment

Mix 8 parts water with 1 part rubbing alcohol and a squirt of liquid dish soap. Spray the entire plant until all surfaces drip. Thorough coverage is critical—hit every nook and cranny. Repeat in one week to catch newly hatched crawlers. Inspect weekly thereafter.

Test on a few leaves first; avoid spraying in direct sun or above 75°F.