P2. If You Ever Spot This Insect, Get Rid of It Immediately!

The Destructive Spotted Lanternfly

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) might look beautiful with its colorful wings, but don’t be fooled. Originally from China, this invasive insect was first detected in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014. Since then, it has spread rapidly, causing extensive damage to a wide range of plants and trees.

Identifying the Spotted Lanternfly

Adult Spotted Lanternflies are about an inch long and easily recognizable by their black heads, gray wings with black spots, and bright red underwings visible during flight. Nymphs, or juvenile lanternflies, start black with white spots and transition to red with white spots as they mature.²

The Threat They Pose

Lanternflies feed on the sap of over 100 plant species, including grapevines, fruit trees, and hardwoods. Their feeding process not only weakens plants but also leads to the growth of sooty mold, a fungus that blocks sunlight and stunts plant growth.³

Destroying Lanternfly Eggs

One of the most effective ways to control Spotted Lanternfly populations is to destroy their eggs. Egg masses, which look like smears of mud, are often found on tree bark, stones, or outdoor furniture. Scrape them off with a card or knife into a bag containing rubbing alcohol to kill the eggs.⁴

Use of Insecticides and Natural Remedies

Insecticides can be effective against Spotted Lanternflies, but should be used carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects and plants. Alternatively, natural remedies like neem oil or essential oils can deter these pests without the need for harsh chemicals.⁵

Setting Traps

Sticky traps around tree trunks can capture nymphs as they climb. However, it’s important to cover the sticky area with mesh to prevent accidentally trapping birds and other wildlife. This simple method can significantly reduce lanternfly numbers in your yard.

When to Call Professionals

If your yard is heavily infested, it might be best to call in pest control professionals. They can use more potent solutions, like systemic insecticides, that are safe for your plants but deadly for the Spotted Lanternfly. Additionally, always report sightings to local authorities to help track and manage the spread of these pests.

Conclusion

The Spotted Lanternfly is more than just a nuisance; it’s a serious threat to plants and trees. By learning to identify these insects and taking immediate action to control their spread, you can protect your yard and help prevent further ecological damage.