Lemons (Citrus Limon) are small evergreen trees that thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 8 through 10. They are commonly found in home gardens, although they are easily grown in containers. When stressed, lemon trees are susceptible to pest damage and fungal attacks. Sooty mold is the title given to several species of fungi that are frequently found on lemon trees. It grows on surgery insect secretions left behind on leaves and other parts of the tree, causing them to appear spotted and dirty. Although it is unsightly, sooty mold is fairly harmless and does not affect the tree directly. To permanently get rid of sooty mold, identify and control the insect feeding on the lemon tree.
Mix 1 tablespoon of mild liquid dish detergent with 1 cup of vegetable oil in a spray bottle and shake until the soap and oil solution is evenly mixed. Spray the lemon tree leaves in the morning at the first sign of infestation until they are saturated on both sides. Repeat the process once a week for up to three weeks to eliminate aphids, scales and white flies.
Wipe lemon tree leaves covered in sooty mold in the morning after the insects have been eliminated. Use a wet rag containing 1 part mild liquid dish detergent to 3 parts water. Make continual swipes vertically and horizontally on both sides of the leaf, re-wetting the rag when necessary, until the mold breaks down and washes off.
Spray the entire lemon tree with a gardening hose set on a steady stream, concentrating heavily on the leaves. Start at the top of the tree, working in an even pattern toward the bottom. This will get rid of any lingering insect secretion and also wash away soap residue.
Things You Will Need
- Liquid dishwashing detergent
- Vegetable oil
- Spray bottle
- Lemon tree leaves heavily covered with sooty mold might prematurely die and drop from the tree.
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