What is sticky stuff from trees falling on veg crop (and everything else!)

Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom

Hi all
I moved to Ely a month or so ago and this is the first time I've come across this. The other day I noticed that the cars parked in the street near some big trees were covered in really sticky stuff. Now I can see that the spinach and salad I've planted in my back garden, which is next to a park with lots of big trees, also seems to be sticky. Some internet info seems to say it's to do with aphids but others mention secretions from the tree itself. Does anyone know what it is and whether the veg is OK to eat (after it's washed, of course!)
Thanks

13 May, 2009

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Answers

Telme8

The sycamore trees drop a sticky stuff, dont park your car under them!

13 May, 2009

Seaburngirl

and to make it worse any greenfly will also add to the problem, its called honeydew and can encourage sooty moulds. it is ok to wash the veg and then eat your veg

13 May, 2009

Mims2

Lime trees cause this trouble too - leave your car under one May/June and it'll be covered in sticky when you get back. Veg will be fine to eat given a good wash, though the sticky can be difficult to remove ...

13 May, 2009

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