Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect pest that has few natural predators in the U.S. This insect spreads quickly and can damage a variety of plants and trees, including fruit trees, hardwoods, and ornamentals. It is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on sap and other tree nutrients. The pest will attack many types of trees with tree of heaven (Ailanthus) being a favorite host.
Taking timely and effective action can help mitigate the impact of spotted lanternfly on landscapes and local ecosystems. With this in mind, it is important to consider all the treatment and management options available.
Monitoring and Identification of Spotted Lanternfly
The first step is to regularly inspect your plants and trees for signs of spotted lanternfly infestation. Young lanternflies are black with white dots, developing red color as they mature. Look for the adults in mid-late summer. They are approximately one-inch long and have distinctive spotted wings with bright red underwings. Often, you will see them in groups, congregating at the base of host trees.
Further, check for egg masses, which are covered by a grayish, waxy substance and about one inch long. You’ll find eggs on tree trunks, outdoor furniture, rocks and other surfaces. Lanternfly egg masses often contain 30-50 eggs each, which you can easily scrape off and destroy.
Cultural Practices to Reduce Populations
The spotted lanternfly prefers certain host plants like tree of heaven. Removing or treating these plants can help reduce populations.
Another good practice is the use of trap trees. Specially treated traps designed to attract and kill lanternflies can be placed in a preferred host tree on the property. These traps can be a strategic way to target the pests and reduce their numbers.
Biological Control with Natural Predators
Invasive insects thrive because they lack natural predators in the introduced environment. However, that doesn’t mean there are no predators of spotted lanternfly. In fact, some insects such as wheel bugs and praying mantis feed on lanternflies. Additionally, a few birds also snack on the pest. It’s always good to encourage the presence of natural predators. By including a variety of native plants in your landscape, you can help give natural predators the habitat they need to establish themselves.
Effective Spotted Lanternfly Treatment Options
For more immediate control, spray treatments can be effective. On the other hand, for longer-term protection, systemic treatments can be applied to the soil or trunk of trees to guard against lanternfly infestations.
Professional Help in Managing Tree Pests
It can be tough to identify pest infestations. Often, that means insect pests will continue to multiply until populations are out of control and damage is severe. A Certified Arborist that is familiar with area trees and shrubs, as well as the pests that attack them, can help identify infestations before damage is widespread. This integrated plant health care approach helps ensure you understand all the options and get a targeted treatment plan as well as advice tailored to your specific situation.
Taking proactive steps now can make a significant difference in managing the impact of spotted lanternflies. By staying vigilant and employing a combination of these strategies, you can protect your landscape and help prevent further spread of this invasive pest.
