Sooty mold appears as a black, sooty residue on leaves. While it can look unsightly (and even alarming), it is not particularly harmful to the plant.
These common molds do not feed on the leaf itself. Instead, they feed on the sugary residue left behind by insects such as aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and scale insects. These insects feed by sucking juices from the plant, and as they do, they deposit a sticky, sugary substance on leaves and nearby surfaces.
You may have seen sooty mold on your windshield after parking under a tree. That same sugary deposit supports fungal growth, which forms the black coating.
Once the insect issue is resolved, the sooty mold can be washed off the leaves.
Our tree and shrub care program is designed to control the insects that cause this issue. With regular treatment and follow-up visits as needed, we can help keep your plants healthier, cleaner, and more vibrant.
If you have any questions or concerns about sooty mold or insect damage, please feel free to contact us.