How to Spot and Control Spotted Lantern Flies

The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect that has been spreading rapidly throughout the eastern United States. It is a major threat to agricultural crops, trees, and other plants.

Lanternflies are about 1 inch long and have a distinctive black and white body with red and orange markings. They are often seen in large groups, and they can produce a sticky substance that can damage plants and property.

Here are some tips on how to spot lanternflies:

• Look for egg masses. Egg masses are about 1 inch in diameter and are covered in a grayish wax. They are often found on trees, but they can also be found on other surfaces, such as vehicles and outdoor furniture. 

• Look for nymphs. Nymphs are the young stage of lanternflies. They are about 1/2 inch long and have a black body with white spots. They are often found feeding on trees and other plants. 

• Look for adults. Adults are about 1 inch long and have the same distinctive black and white body with red and orange markings as the nymphs. They are often seen flying around in large groups. 

If you see lanternflies, there are a few things you can do to control them:

• Scrape off egg masses. Egg masses can be scraped off with a hard object and then destroyed.

• Trap nymphs and adults. There are a variety of traps available that can be used to catch lanternflies.

• Apply insecticides. Insecticides can be effective at killing lanternflies. Link to Spotted Lantern-fly Products

It is important to report any sightings of lanternflies to your local authorities. The more quickly we can control this invasive pest, the less damage it will cause to our environment.

Here are some additional tips for controlling lanternflies:

• Promote plant health. Healthy plants are less likely to be damaged by lanternflies. Water your plants regularly and fertilize them according to the directions.

• Remove tree of heaven. Tree of heaven is a favorite host plant of lanternflies. If you have tree of heaven on your property, remove it.

• Monitor your property regularly. The best way to control lanternflies is to catch them early. Check your property regularly for egg masses, nymphs, and adults.

• Work with your neighbors. Lanternflies can easily spread from one property to another. Work with your neighbors to control the pest.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent the spread of lanternflies and protect your property from this invasive pest.