Why does your Rhododendron mucronatum have sticky leaves? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that congregate on the tender new growth of Rhododendrons. They excrete a sugary substance called honeydew, which coats the leaves and creates a characteristic sticky film.
Scale insects attach themselves to the stems and leaf petioles of Rhododendron mucronatum, extracting nutrients. Like aphids, they excrete honeydew that settles on the foliage surface.
This is not a direct cause but a secondary symptom; a black, velvety fungus grows on the sticky honeydew left by insects. It can eventually coat the leaves and inhibit photosynthesis in the Pincushion Rhododendron.
Whiteflies are tiny flying insects that feed on the underside of Rhododendron leaves. Their feeding process results in significant honeydew production, leading to sticky leaf surfaces.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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