Knowledgebase

Honeysuckle issue #871622

Asked June 04, 2024, 9:06 PM EDT

I put down a systematic insecticide last fall to help with the aphid problem on the honeysuckle. No aphids . But some flowers are turning black. ??

Jackson County Michigan

Expert Response

I’m not sure why the honeysuckle flowers are turning black. Pictures above. 
thank you. 
Jean Davis

The Question Asker Replied June 09, 2024, 12:08 AM EDT

Hello,

The blackening of honeysuckle flowers after the application of a systemic insecticide could be due to several factors. It’s important to consider that while systemic insecticides are effective against pests like aphids, they can sometimes have unintended effects on the plant or the environment around it. Here are a few possibilities:

Chemical Burn: The insecticide may have caused a chemical burn to the flowers, especially if the concentration was too high or if it was applied during hot weather.

Fungal Infections: The absence of aphids can lead to increased fungal diseases, as aphids can sometimes prevent fungal spores from landing on the plants they infest. Blackened flowers could be a sign of a fungal infection.

Environmental Stress: After the aphids are gone, the plant may experience stress due to a sudden environmental change, leading to blackened flowers.

Herbicide Contamination: If the insecticide was contaminated with a herbicide or accidental exposure to herbicide, this could cause damage to the flowers.

It’s also worth noting that some honeysuckle diseases can cause blackening of parts of the plant. For example, Sooty Mold can grow on the honeydew secreted by aphids, and once the aphids are gone, the mold may become more noticeable.


If you want, you can consult a plant pathology department at a university for a more accurate diagnosis. They can provide specific guidance based on regional conditions and the particular species of honeysuckle you have. I highly recommend you consult with a the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab. I recommend you send all your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab for a confirmed and precise diagnosis. The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options. Their email is <personal data hidden> - Please include your name – The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent. FYI – The lab may also ask for additional images.

Their website is at this link:

Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

Their Contact Information is at this link:

Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

If the lab wants you to submit a sample, this link will explain the details of submitting a sample to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:

Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)




An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 12, 2024, 4:17 AM EDT

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