Spotted Lanternflies Are Back. Here's How to Deal With Them.

What are spotted lanternflies?

Spotted lanternflies are an invasive species native to China, Japan, and Korea that were first discovered in the United States in 2014. They are about an inch long, with gray wings with black spots and red hind wings. Nymphs are black with white spots. They feed on over 70 different plant species and excrete honeydew, which can promote the growth of mold.

How to identify spotted lanternflies

Spotted lanternflies are easy to identify due to their distinct appearance. Adults have gray wings with black spots and red hind wings, while nymphs are black with white spots. They are about an inch long and can be found on a variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, and vines.

Where to find spotted lanternflies

Spotted lanternflies are most commonly found in southeastern Pennsylvania, but they have also been found in New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. They can be found on a variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, and vines.

How to control spotted lanternflies

There are several ways to control spotted lanternflies, including:

• Squashing them
• Trapping them
• Spraying them with insecticides
• Hiring a professional pest control company

What to do if you see a spotted lanternfly

If you see a spotted lanternfly, you should report it to your local agricultural extension office. You can also help control the spread of spotted lanternflies by:

• Inspecting your plants for signs of infestation
• Removing any egg masses or nymphs that you find
• Cleaning your outdoor furniture and equipment
• Avoiding moving firewood or other materials that could harbor spotted lanternflies

Spotted lanternflies are a serious threat to our plants and economy. By taking steps to control them, we can help protect our environment and our way of life.