Tree and Shrub Disease

Sooty mold is more of a cosmetic problem in trees and shrubs than anything. It appears as black areas of mold on leaves and needles of the plant (as well as under the infected plant on drives, fences, vehicles, etc.). Insects usually transmit the disease as they suck on sap from leaves, the sap can drip onto uninfected areas which grows and spreads sooty mold. Although sooty mold is not life-threatening to the tree, it can weaken the plant and block sunlight from reaching the leaf tissue. Sooty mold may be washed off the leaves or needles of the plant with the use of a hose and it is recommended to apply preventative insect control on susceptible trees and shrubs.

Disease Development Favored by: Sap-feeding insects Corrective Measures: Wash plant with hose Apply preventative insecticide to susceptible plants

Sooty Mold