Question
I have a mature schefflera that I'm moving outside as the weather is warmer.  I noticed a few of the leaves have a sticky substance on them and very small white objects that look almost like string.  They don't appear to move.  What is it and how do I treat?  Thanks.

Answer
Gregg:

The sticky/clear material sounds like "honeydew".  Honeydew is the sugary excrement(poop)of an insect. There are several insects that produce this material. Most common are aphids and scale.  The scale insects are often (not always) on the underside of the leaves and are round raised objects that are about 1-2mm in diameter.  Mealybugs are whitish and look fuzzy, like the end of a Qtip.  The mealybugs and scales do not move, but aphids will.

If you like, you can send me a closeup photo and I will attempt to ID.  If you have just a few of these insects, you can manually remove.  If you have a lot, you can use an appropriate insecticide.  A good choice is BAYER ADVANCED GARDEN TREE AND SHRUB INSECT CONTROL. It comes in a blue plastic bottle. It is a liquid that you mix with water according to the directions and apply to the soil.  The plant takes up the insecticide through the roots.  It controls lots of different insects.  Another choice is insecticidal soap.  Check with your local garden center about these two product choices.  They should also be able to ID your "critter" if you can carry in a few affected leaves for them to look at.

Regards

Steve