Spotted Lanternflies emerged as a significant pest in recent years, for Pennsylvania, they emerged as a large issue in 2014, causing concern among environmentalists, farmers, and homeowners. Every year homeowners all across Pennsylvania are warned about Spotted Lantern Flies, and when to kill them. The issue has gotten so bad, that many counties in Pennsylvania are quarantined, and the Department of Agriculture has created a phone number to call when you spot one. Here are some tips, tricks, and knowledge about the Spotted Lantern Fly to know so you can fight back.
The Spotted Lanternfly: An Invasive Species
Spotted lanternflies are extremely invasive insects that feed on various host plants, including grapes, fruit trees, and hardwood trees. They cause serious damage to these plants. Some examples are leaf curling, oozing sap, and dieback in trees, crops, etc. Spotted Lanternflies are known for their distinctive appearance, featuring grayish wings with black spots and a vibrant red lower wing. Despite their striking appearance, these insects seriously threaten agriculture and ecosystems. The Spotted Lanternflies cause harm to the crops which in turn, causes harm to the economy and the production of these crops.
How to Spot
Image of “Teen” Spotted Lanternfly. This is one of the 5 stages of growth for the SLF.
To stop the spread of these pesky flies, you will need to know what they look like. Adult Spotted Lanternflies are about one inch long and half an inch wide. They have a distinct shape, with wings that are grayish with black spots when at rest, and red with black spots when in flight. The Spotted Lanternfly nymphs have several stages of markings and colorings. They are smaller and have black bodies with white spots and red patches. Spotted Lanterflies are very easy to spot as they have skinny black legs and usually are at rest. The nymphs are known to jump, so be wary when going to stomp on them.
Trees That Are Impacted
Spotted Lantern Flies select any and every plant and tree to attack, however there are specific trees that they swarm to:
- Maple Trees
- Peach Trees
- Apple Trees
- Pine Trees
- Grape Trees
- Willow Trees
- Cherry Trees
- Apricot Trees
Crops That Are Impacted
- Grape Vines
- Horseradish
- Black Walnut
- Basil
- Cucumber
- Raspberries
- Asparagus
Why Do They Feed On These Trees and Crops
The reason Spotted Lanternflies eat these specific crops is because most of these crops produce sap. The Spotted Lanternflies damage the crops and trees because they feed on the sap that is produced by the crops and trees. The crops also give off a sugary substance that attracts the Spotted Lanternflies, as well as other insects such as flies, bees, and more.
For More Information On The Crops and Trees Affected
Control and Management For Spotted Lanternflies
How do we control Spotted Lanternflies? Various methods, including insecticides, traps, and biological control agents, are being used to reduce their populations. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and regulatory measures are actively being put in place around the state of Pennsylvania to prevent the spread of these Spotted Lanternflies to new areas. It is extremely important to know if your county is in the quarantine line for the Spotted Lanternflies. If so, there are easy ways to protect your trees. One way that is popular amongst homeowners is taping your trees. This way you are not only protecting your tree, but you are preventing the Spotted Lanternflies from spreading to more of your trees. If you are not in the quarantine area and see Spotted Lanternflies, The Department of Agriculture has a specific phone number for sightings of Spotted Lantern Flies. That number is 1-888-4BADFLY.
Here Is A Map of The Quarantined Areas!
We Can Help Save Your Trees and Crops
At Cutting Edge Tree Professionals, our job is to keep your yards in top shape, whether that be protecting trees from storms, or getting rid of Spotted Lantern Flies. With our knowledge of the area and which tree species will thrive most in your area, we can help you every step of the way! At Cutting Edge Tree Professionals we are available all year round and can come for inspections at any time. Give us a call at (814)-201-9757 or set up a consultation today, we are here to help!