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Why You Should Kill It Immediately:
The Spotted Lanternfly poses a serious risk to a wide range of plants, including fruit trees (like apples and peaches), grapevines, hops, and hardwood trees. It feeds by sucking sap from the stems and leaves, which can lead to wilting, dieback, and even the death of the plant. Furthermore, it excretes a sugary substance known as honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold—a black, unsightly fungus that can cover plants and inhibit photosynthesis.
This pest’s ability to reproduce rapidly makes it even more dangerous. Each female Spotted Lanternfly can lay up to 50 eggs in a single mass, which she can hide in crevices of trees, rocks, outdoor furniture, and even vehicles, aiding its spread.
Steps to Take if You Spot a Spotted Lanternfly:
1. Kill It on Sight
If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, kill it immediately. Squash it, capture it in a container, or use a pesticide if necessary. It’s crucial not to hesitate, as even one insect can lead to an infestation.
2. Report the Sighting
Report your sighting to your local agriculture department or extension office. In many states, there are hotlines or websites where you can log the location of your sighting. This helps authorities track the spread of the pest and implement control measures.
3. Inspect and Destroy Egg Masses
During the fall, females lay eggs in clusters that resemble a grayish, putty-like substance. These can be found on tree bark, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and other surfaces. If you spot an egg mass, scrape it off into a bag containing rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs. Dispose of the bag in the trash.
4. Remove Preferred Hosts
The Spotted Lanternfly is particularly attracted to the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), an invasive species itself. If you have this tree on your property, consider removing it to reduce the likelihood of a Spotted Lanternfly infestation. Other host plants include grapevines, maples, and walnuts, which should be monitored closely.
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