Begonia Monza Scarlet Sticky Leaves - Causes & Fixes

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Aphid Infestation

Aphids are sap-sucking insects that excrete 'honeydew,' a sticky, sugar-rich substance that coats the leaves of Begonias. This substance can lead to the growth of black sooty mold on the scarlet foliage.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the undersides of the leaves and new growth for tiny, soft-bodied green or black insects.

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1 Apply an organic insecticide to eliminate the aphid population and stop the production of honeydew.

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2 Wipe the sticky leaves with a damp cloth to remove the honeydew and prevent the development of black sooty mold.

3 Inspect the undersides of leaves and new growth regularly to catch any remaining pests before they spread.

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Scale Insects

Scale insects attach themselves to the stems and leaf undersides of Begonia Monza Scarlet, sucking nutrients and secreting sticky honeydew. Unlike aphids, these pests look like small, stationary bumps or crusty patches.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Check for hard, raised bumps on the stems that can be scraped off with a fingernail.

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1 Treat the plant with an organic insecticide to eliminate the scale insects and stop the secretion of honeydew.

Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil 32 oz

0.9 L • 1 pcs • Organic

$10

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2 Physically remove visible scale bumps from stems and leaves using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

3 Wipe the sticky leaves with a damp cloth to remove the honeydew residue and prevent fungal growth.

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Mealybugs

Mealybugs are slow-moving pests that produce honeydew and are often covered in a white, cottony wax. In Begonias, they tend to hide in the leaf axils (where the leaf meets the stem).

Common

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How to confirm: Look for small, white, fluffy masses tucked into the crevices of the plant's stems.

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1 Isolate the plant immediately to prevent the spread of mealybugs to other houseplants.

2 Treat the plant with an organic insecticide spray to eliminate existing pests and larvae.

Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil 32 oz

0.9 L • 1 pcs • Organic

$10

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3 Wipe the leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to remove the white cottony wax and sticky honeydew.

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Excessive Nectar/Sap Exudation

In rare cases of physical damage or extreme temperature fluctuations, the Begonia may exude sap directly from wounded leaf tissues. This sap is naturally viscous and can feel sticky to the touch.

Common

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How to confirm: Examine the leaves for any physical tears, punctures, or bruising that coincide with the sticky spots.

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1 Gently wipe the sticky residue from the leaves using a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water to prevent fungal growth.

2 Inspect the plant for physical wounds or pests like aphids that might be causing sap leakage, and treat with an organic insecticide if pests are found.

Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil 32 oz

0.9 L • 1 pcs • Organic

$10

In Stock

3 Stabilize the environment by avoiding extreme temperature fluctuations and using a moisture meter to ensure consistent watering.