Your Tree dripping sap on cars and patios may from aphids.

Last Updated on January 24, 2022 by Zachary Smith

Aphids are a prime cause of trees dripping sap,  but aphids are easily treated. We control aphids in trees safely and stop the dripping.

Some trees drip because they are infected with aphids. It is always helpful to control any ants that are feeding on the sugar the aphids secrete. This is important because ants protect aphids from their natural enemies.

Aphids in trees have a many natural enemies that can control the population naturally, albeit slowly. When controlling aphids, bear in mind that we want to preserve the beneficial insect population. For faster results, a low-toxicity insecticide can help stop the dripping resulting in those sticky sidewalks and cars covered in sap.

Aphids as well as white flies can be knocked off trees and shrubs with a strong jet of water. Using neem oil or insecticidal soaps can help control aphids, but because it is not systemic, the material has to contact every aphid for the treatment to kill them all.

Insecticides containing acephate, permethrin, diazinon, or malathion are effective against aphids, but they can harm beneficial insects so these should be used when the problem is severe. many of these can be directly injected into the tree and this eliminates human and beneficial insects from coming into contact with the insecticide.

If you oak tree is dripping, the link (click on picture) below will give you more info on harmless oak tree dripping.

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/DISEASES/dripoakacorns.html
http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/DISEASES/dripoakacorns.html

Author Bio: Zachary Smith

Zachary Smith is the Founder & Owner of Zachary Smith Arboriculture. He is a professional horticulturist who holds a BS in Environmental Horticultural Science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.