Sap Sap Sap is a fluid transported in xylem cells (vessel elements or tracheids) or phloem sieve tube elements of a plant. These cells transport water and nutrients throughout the plant. Sap is distinct from latex, resin, or cell sap; it is a separate substance, separately produced, and with different components and functions. Saps may be broadly divided into two types: xylem sap and phloem sap. Xylem sap (pronounced ) consists primarily of a watery solution of hormones, mineral elements and other nutrients. Transport of sap in xylem is characterized by movement from the roots toward the leaves. Over the past
Sooty mold Sooty mold Sooty mold is a collective term for different Ascomycete fungi, which includes many genera, commonly "Cladosporium" and "Alternaria". It grows on plants and their fruit, but also environmental objects, like fences, garden furniture, stones, even cars. The mold benefits from either a sugary exudate produced by the plant or fruit, or if the plant is infested by honeydew-secreting insects or sap suckers. Sooty mold itself does little if any harm to the plant. Treatment is indicated when the mold is combined with insect infestation. Sooty mold is a collective, self-descriptive term for a number of different fungi; it