🌸 Sticky Acer Leaves This May? Here’s What’s Going On – and How to Fix It Naturally
As spring turns to early summer, your garden should be bursting with colour and life—and few trees are as eye-catching in May as the Acer (Japanese maple). But if you’ve noticed a sticky or shiny residue on the leaves, don’t worry: it’s a common issue at this time of year, and the fix is simple and natural.
🐜 What’s Causing the Stickiness?
This sticky film is usually the result of sap-sucking insects like aphids or scale insects. These pests become more active as temperatures rise in May, feeding on the sap and leaving behind honeydew—a sugary substance that coats the leaves.
If left untreated, the honeydew can attract sooty mould, which looks like a black or dusty layer on the leaf surface. It won’t kill your tree, but it can affect photosynthesis and make your Acer look a bit tired.
🌿 A Natural Solution: Actiferm
May is a great time to give your plants a boost—and Actiferm is perfect for the job. It’s a natural liquid filled with beneficial microbes that support your plant’s health from the roots up.
How Actiferm helps in May:
Strengthens the tree’s natural defences during peak pest season.
Improves soil health and nutrient uptake as growth surges.
Helps leaves recover and resist moulds without any harsh chemicals.
💧 How to Use Actiferm on Acers:
Soil treatment: Mix 10ml per litre of water and apply around the base of the tree.
Foliar spray: For direct leaf support, dilute to 2ml per litre and gently mist the leaves. Do this in the early morning or evening to avoid strong sunlight.
✂️ Extra May Care Tips for Acers:
Check the undersides of leaves regularly for aphids or eggs.
Encourage airflow by pruning overcrowded branches.
Avoid high-nitrogen feeds that encourage soft, pest-prone growth.
Water consistently, especially during dry spells.
🌱 May Is a Time for Growth – and Gentle Care
Your Acer is putting on new leaves, colour, and shape this month, so supporting it with the right care now can make a big difference for the season ahead.
Sticky leaves are a gentle nudge from nature that something’s a little off—but with a natural product like Actiferm and a bit of attention, your Acer will be back to looking spectacular in no time.
🌐 Have you seen our Acer website?
If you're a fan of Japanese maples or looking to expand your collection, check out acersonline.co.uk – our dedicated site packed with beautiful varieties, care tips, and seasonal advice to keep your Acers looking their best all year round.
