Black stuff

Looking for some help on how to deal with this black stuff that took over my back yard last year. It attacked several shrubs and vines. Some have recovered and others still have not. Attached is a photo with an example of what it looks like. This particular plant is now on the mend but others are still suffering and they need your help!

The "black stuff" usually is the result of other insects in your garden. (this sort of looks like Star Jasmine, but not sure) They feed off of your plants and their secretions land on the leaves. Then a "Black Sooty Mold" starts to grow on the leaves and stems of those plants. The insects may or may not be on the plants in the photo, they could be on plants nearby, usually above, and their secretions fall on the plants below. Some of the worst are white fly, aphids and scale. If you look close they are usually fairly easy to see.
To correct the problem you should spray the entire plant thoughly, probably at least two applications, two weeks apart to get the best control. Use an insectiside that is recommened for the insect you find. There are 'broad spectrum' products that will take care of all of those above and many more. You can apply them with a simple hose sprayer. A tank sprayer will also work well if you have one.
A few days later you can try to get the "black stuff" off is using a strong spray of water, perhaps even using a mild soapy solution to help loosen it. But also try to rinse of as much of the soap as you can afterwards. It is likely you may not get all of the black off, you will just have to wait for new growth to fill in.

Since the problem occurred last year I think we need to deal with what is happening now. Is the new growth on your plants green? Could you specify which plants were involved? Do you see evidence of new "black stuff"?
Good sources for identifying plant problems are the Master Gardeners located at 5555 Overland Ave, San Diego, CA 92123 and the county agriculture people also located at the same address. The services are free and contain the most up to date information.
Please do not use chemical sprays until you know why you need them. Sometimes the problem can be eliminated by hosing off the "black stuff" and invaders with a forceful water spray. Next step is to prevent ants from entering the area.