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Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom Gb

While walking in the park over the last few days it's hard to escape the moisture dripping from the numerous willow trees along the edge of the river. It's almost like rain.
Does anyone know what it is and why it always happens at this time of year?




Answers

 

Next time you're there, try to have a close look at the leaves of the tree - the usual cause of this phenomenon is a heavy aphid infestation, and what's 'raining' down is their honeydew (or their poo, if you like). It's usually sticky once it dries.

26 May, 2017

 

There are a lot of willow trees and therefore a lot of 'poo' which is impossible to avoid. Thank you for telling me!

26 May, 2017

 

it could also be excess water leaving the leaves as you say they are down by the river.
or a combination of both :o)

26 May, 2017

 

Well, at least if it is poo it's not solid! But I prefer the thought that it's excess water as many of the trees have their roots in the water. If that's so, though, why is it always at this time of year and not through the green time?

27 May, 2017

 

in spring there is massive growth and leaf extension and the sugars that have been stored in the roots over the winter need to be translocated [moved around] the whole tree. water taken in at the roots are essential for this translocation. once the leaves are fully mature they make their own sugars so depend less on water movement. In the summer the water evaporates faster from the surface of the leaf so you don't get the dripping effect.

27 May, 2017

 

What a knowleable lot you are! I'm in awe since I can only identify a few trees let alone know how their systems work.

Thank you for the education. :)

27 May, 2017

How do I say thanks?

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