Boxelder (Acer negundo) problem

Klamath Falls, OR(Zone 6a)

When we moved to a new house we inherited a very large Box Elder tree that's fairly close in. I've learned that there are a number of serious problems that can affect this tree...bugs, diseases, breakage etc. I haven't been able to find anything though about this: The leaves are completely covered with a thin shiney layer of some sticky substance. It looks and feels like sap but there is nothing coming from the trunk or on the bark. Everything beneath the tree is covered with the same stuff (plants, furniture-everything). Anybody have a clue what this might be?

sharvis

Minneapolis, MN(Zone 5a)

I would guess that its honeydew from aphids, scale or mealybugs (or all three).

I would call someone to have them come out and look at the tree, diagnose the problem and then spray to remove the problem insect(s).
Mike

Klamath Falls, OR(Zone 6a)

Thanks Mike. What you say makes a lot of sense; that very well could be the problem. Think I'll follow your suggestion.

sharvis

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