Sticky Schefflera Leaves: Scale Insects & Honeydew

The Culprit: Scale

Sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves/floor + brown/tan waxy bumps on stems/leaf undersides = scale insects. They suck sap and excrete honeydew.

Treatment

1. Isolate the plant.
2. Light infestation: Scrape off with tweezers or alcohol-dipped cotton swabs.
3. Spray: Mix 1–2 tsp rubbing alcohol + 1–2 tsp dish soap in a spray bottle. Cover all surfaces (top/bottom leaves, stems). Repeat weekly.
4. Commercial: Houseplant insect spray (follow label).
5. Heavy infestation: Consider disposal — scale is hard to eradicate completely.

Prevention

Inspect new plants. Quarantine. Check weekly.