Runner bean leaves shrivelling and sticky

pineapple

Does anyone know what this might be? At the mo just some leaves are affected. I can't see signs of any insects

Leif

Sticky suggests aphids. Are there skin casts about?

pineapple

Leif wrote: »

Sticky suggests aphids. Are there skin casts about?

Can't find anything. Nor is it like there's an obvious substance on them - it's like they just turned into sellotape. Then they turn thin and papery

JulieM

Could it be slugs? Tell tale signs are silvery trails on leaves.

ALIBOBSY

If there are holes as well I agree its probably slugs, once the plants get bigger they aren't a target for the slimers.

Ali x

pineapple

Thanks to everyone who responded. Actually I find that copper tape works well to keep the slimey so and sos at bay!
I removed the dead leaves promptly just in case they were diseased but after all that, I think it might have been environmental. The beans seem to have picked up again - fingers crossed. :j

Leif

I wonder if it was some form of disease, and the stickiness was due to cells bursting? I would not have thought slugs would kill leaves, unless they were completely eaten, and the trails would be easily recognised. For things like rusts I've read that it is good to collect and burn the leaves, don't compost them, you spread the spores if present.