I just found the same type of thing on one of my marigolds yesterday. I checked out Frass on wikipedia and I don't think that is the explanation. I would describe the issue as a thick white web, under which is housed a large number of what look to be tiny black eggs. Any thoughts? I've been trying to figure it out online, but no luck yet. Thanks!

I don't have a useful specific answer to your question, but a look in a field guide to insects may help, and a call and/or visit to your local cooperative extension service almost certainly will. They can help you find an expert in what is in your area. http://www.csrees.usda.gov/Extension/ Is the national address. I'll put the Oregon one in below. If you bring them some of the eggs in some sort of small sealed container (I would have said film can a few years ago, I almost said pill bottle just now, I guess I'm showing my age ;) They should either be able to identify them or get them to a scientist who can. Here is a link that might be useful: Oregon State University Cooperative Extension web site

I had the same problem with spider webs. I bought an old home in the midwest, too. I did everything I could possibly think of to get rid of the spiders. I ended up calling an exterminator ( mainly because they were also in the basement, too). The spiders were also coming into my home (right around the door!). That was about 5 months ago... so far I haven't seen more webs or spiders. I'm not suggesting you call an exterminator--- it was costly & I probably could have sprayed myself had I known what to buy. Nevertheless, it's an option if nothing else works. I also bought bug lights.

If there are egg sacs, very likely there will be baby spiders:) They feed on other insects not people (I know some ppl do not like spiders but most are harmless). I don't kill them, even indoors - rather take outside if necessary...