I have a Frangipani in front and its leaves are covered in black - nothing planted near it is covered. There is black on it's stems as well. I wiped off a good bit today is this common??? Is it mold or dirt or what???
Any advice appreciated.
Happy Gardening!!!!!!!
Msailaway
Do you have to clean Frangipani leaves????
http://plumeria101.com this is the best site
Sounds like Sooty mold... it's a fungus that grows on the honeydew excreted by sucking insects.... like aphids, thrips, whiteflies or leaf hoppers. You'll prolly need to treat for the insects and then use a fungicide on the mold.
I had the same stuff and figured it came from the whiteflies. Sure enough, that website says that infestations of white flies can create a growing environment for black sooty mold. Oh joy. :P I cleaned mine off with water and papertowels. I've been spraying the whiteflies as much as possible since I moved it in to the house and I have a circulating fan too.
Thank you all for your help!! The link was great - a real keeper. I belive it is the sooty mold. I do have ants so I guess that means aphids not white fly but will look into it further. Mine is outside - It will be getting extra attention this weekend.
Thanks Again - and Happy Gardening!!!!
Msailaway