Expert: Darlene K. Kittle - 3/26/2004

Question
Hi Darlene -
I have an indoor lime tree that has bore fruit before and is very healthy.  Now I notice tiny drops of sap on its leaves, dispersed very uniformly, and some drops oozing out of the stems.  Is this part of transpiration?  Can you tell me exactly what is going on inside the plant?  I am certain there are no insects, and this is not mildew.  would it be ok to clean it off with say, an olive oil?  Thanks, Halla

Answer
Halla,

It is probably normal transpiration.  Yes I would clean it off but I would use soapy water.  Definitely do not use olive oil. That will clog the pores in the leaves of the Lime tree and they won't be able to breath. It is never a good idea to apply oil to any plant unless you re diluting it a lot and using it to kill incects. Good luck.

                                   Darlene