Every once in a while we don't have a clear and specific answer and this is one of those times, Lad. You do not indicate where you are but it seems that the sticky white substance may not be from the plant itself but from whiteflies or aphids.
Now you wonder, what to do? If indeed this is the case, ideally, you would want to encourage "good bugs" (some wasps, predatory mites, black ladybird beetles, for example, depending on your area) into your garden to eliminate these pests rather than apply insecticides, which might destroy any good bugs that are present. A good bug welcome mat can not be put out in a day; it's often a gradual thing that can be accomplished by bringing in other plants.
To have a better idea of what you're dealing with and how to eliminate it, we suggest that you contact your local agricultural extension service. They would be more familiar with specific conditions in your area. Hope this helps—Best wishes!
Every once in a while we don't have a clear and specific answer and this is one of those times, Lad. You do not indicate where you are but it seems that the sticky white substance may not be from the plant itself but from whiteflies or aphids.
Now you wonder, what to do? If indeed this is the case, ideally, you would want to encourage "good bugs" (some wasps, predatory mites, black ladybird beetles, for example, depending on your area) into your garden to eliminate these pests rather than apply insecticides, which might destroy any good bugs that are present. A good bug welcome mat can not be put out in a day; it's often a gradual thing that can be accomplished by bringing in other plants.
To have a better idea of what you're dealing with and how to eliminate it, we suggest that you contact your local agricultural extension service. They would be more familiar with specific conditions in your area. Hope this helps—Best wishes!