Sooty Molds
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Sooty Molds  Sooty mold fungi grow on sugary honeydew excreted by sap feeding insects. They do not directly damage plants but are unsightly and block out light needed for photosynthesis. Leaves may fall, in severe cases the plant may be weakened. Susceptible Plants- Camellia, bay laurel, birch, ornamental citrus, linden, oak,plum, rose, tomato vine, willows, and many others, outdoors and under glass. Symptoms- Sooty molds are black or brown soot-like deposits which appear on upper leaf surfaces and other plant parts, especially during damp weather. Plants will be infested with sap feeding insects such as aphids, whiteflies, scale insects or mealy bugs. Prevention and Control- Is done by control the insects that produce the honeydew. Spray or sponge leaves with water. When cleared of sooty mold the fruit will be still edible. Sap sucking insects have several natural enemies, including parasitic wasps, ladybird beetles (ladybugs) and larvae, and green lacewing adults and larvae. Their natural enemies tend to keep aphid, whitefly, scale insect, and mealy bug populations under control except in cool weather. Ants are sometimes associated with aphid infestations and will protect them from their natural enemies. If ants are present, they should be controlled. Sap sucking insects can be hosed off with a strong stream of water directed above and below the leaves. Spraying with water should be repeated frequently as needed, focusing in particular on new growth. . Biological Control- "Aphid Parasite Aphidius colemani" Pesticide control.- most infected plants can also be sprayed with insecticidal soap to control aphids.Insecticidal Soap
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