Invest in Tree Health to Get Rid of Sticky Sap Drips
Advice from ISA-Certified Arborists in the San Diego Area
There is a direct correlation between tree health and sticky sap drips. While actual sap is a vital part of a tree’s life, an excessive or dripping sap-like substance is never a good sign. It may not actually be sap! The ISA-certified experts at Rancho Coastal explain how timely arbor care can help prevent a sticky mess on your San Diego Area property.
How to Tackle ‘Sap’ Drips through Proactive Arbor Care
Here are some things you should know about tree health and sticky sap drips.
What is sap? True sap is a sticky substance that consists of hormones and nutrients, which are critical for the health and growth of the trees. While all trees produce sap, some species produce more sap than the rest, and some are prone to ‘bleed’ sap when injured.
When is excessive tree sap a problem? If you see the trees on your property dripping sap or leaving a sticky mess on the sidewalks or cars nearby, it may be a sign that your trees have an insect infestation that needs urgent attention. The sticky substance that you see is not actually sap, but honeydew. Honeydew is the excrement left behind by plant-sucking pests, such as aphids, scale insects, lace bugs, or mealybugs that feed on tree sap.
Why does insect infestation occur? Incorrect pruning techniques or insufficient or improper arbor care can weaken the trees on your property and attract pests such as aphids. These pests not only damage the trees, but also cause certain tree diseases such as sooty mold, a fungus that grows on the sticky honeydew causing leaves and stems to turn black and preventing efficient photosynthesis. Honeydew is also a food source for other insects, such as ants, who will even protect aphids from their natural predators to ensure the survival of their food source.
Are certain trees more prone to aphid attacks? Trees such as oak, elm, maple, willow and certain fruit trees are more vulnerable to aphids and other honeydew-exuding tree pests.
How to prevent infestations and sticky drips? A comprehensive arborist report will give you insight into the current and future arbor care needs for the trees on your property. Consider investing in year-round tree health care services by ISA-certified professionals. Ongoing tree assessments, timely and proper pruning, adequate watering, and periodic treatments and mulching will improve the overall tree health and prevent infestations or tree diseases that cause sticky drips.
Customized, Affordable Tree Health Care in the San Diego Area
At Rancho Coastal, our goal is to help property owners and managers maximize their arbor care budget through proactive investment in tree health. Our ISA-certified arborists provide the complete suite of tree care services, including pruning, fertilizing, tree pest control, tree removal, and emergency tree services.
We are a licensed, bonded, and fully insured tree services company, certified by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Our holistic approach to tree care and customized arbor care services have benefited numerous residential and commercial properties in the San Diego Area, including San Diego, Del Mar, La Jolla, and Coronado, CA.
Nurture and protect the health of the trees on your San Diego Area property by hiring the arbor care experts at Rancho Coastal. Call 619-847-4225 or contact us online to book a consultation.
