Question
I have two big plants birds of paradise. I asked a question in regards the brown spots and the sticky juice on the leaves as well as the stems. I followed the answer instructions and have trenched the leaves with alcohol and water. Then the next day I spray it with dish soap and water. I still find those brown sports and the stickiness on the leaves. I then use the cloth to wipe them away. They really stick to the leaves. Some of them come off on the cloths but still some on the leaves. What can I do?
I now fine those brown spots on my other plants too. I wonder if it will harm my other plants.
Some of the sticky juice sticks to my skin and would it cause harmful on my skin if I don't clean it off right away?
I had this birds paradise for years now and not knowing what those brown spots was, I some time juice use the water spays and clean them with the cloths. Then I thought its part of the plants so I didn't do anything to it. The sticky juice falls onto everywhere... Now four years later and have seen the mall抯 bird of paradise don't have the brown spots like mine so now I start wondering what they were and why? I touch them and my skin get itch. Why? What else can I do to get rids of those brown spots and the sticky juice permanently and the other plants which had contaminant.
I have never seen its flowered. Now I check on the Internet and realized it should flower. What have I done wrong?

Answer
Jen, it sounds like you are dealing with a bacterial disease, probably Cercospora; if so, its very hard to control, but without having it tested, its difficult to determine exactly what is occurring with your bird. I would take a sample of the infected plant to your local Cooperative Extension Service, and have it checked. What concerns me more is the sticky substance that irritates your skin; I can say I've never heard of that. Afflictions of this nature are difficult to identify and treat, especially without physically seeing it. Your extension officer will be more then happy to diagnose and recommend treatment...Nick