Sooty mold is closely connected with pest damage. When insects such as aphids, spider mites, thrips, or scale wound a plant, fungal problems can follow.
Growers may see dark surface buildup, reddish-brown streaks, or spreading marks as the problem develops. Treating only the visible mold is not enough if the pest pressure remains.
Control starts with identifying the insects, isolating affected plants, improving airflow, and reducing the conditions that let fungal symptoms spread.