The presence of sticky 'honeydew' drops on leaves in a greenhouse might indicate which pest?

The presence of sticky 'honeydew' droplets on leaves in a greenhouse is a strong indicator of aphid activity. Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that feed on the plant's fluids. As they consume the plant sap, they excrete a sugary liquid known as honeydew, which can accumulate on the leaves below. This substance not only indicates the presence of aphids but can also attract other pests and lead to sooty mold growth, which can further hinder the plant's ability to photosynthesize and thrive.

While other pests like scale and certain types of soft-bodied insects might also produce honeydew, aphids are one of the most common culprits in greenhouse environments. Recognizing the signs of honeydew is crucial for identifying pest problems early, enabling appropriate pest management strategies to be employed before significant damage occurs.