Professional Spotted Lanternfly Management
Spotted lanternflies can cause severe damage to trees and plants. These invasive insects were first discovered in the United States (Pennsylvania) in 2014. Since then, they’ve spread to 17 states throughout the northeastern US. Although spotted lanternflies are not directly harmful to humans and don’t bite or sting, they have contributed to large losses in agricultural production. With thorough services from Mosquito Squad Plus® and tips to manage this pest at its various life stages, you can control spotted lanternflies and protect your trees.
Fun Fact About Spotted Lanternflies
Winter is the best time to get rid of spotted lanternfly eggs by scraping them off and destroying them! Most eggs are laid in the fall and then hatch in the spring.
What Is a Spotted Lanternfly?
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect native to Asia that has become a serious pest in parts of the US. Adult spotted lanternflies are about an inch long and have gray wings covered in black spots. When their wings are open, you can see a second pair of bright red and white wings with black spots. Young nymphs in the early stages of growth are black with white spots. Right before adulthood, nymphs become red with black and white spots.
Spotted lanternflies typically hatch in May and live as nymphs for a couple of months. Nymphs are commonly mistaken for ticks and feed on sap in the canopies of trees. Adult spotted lanternflies are considered the most destructive because they can fly, allowing them to easily feed on many trees and plants. Adult females lay up to two egg masses with 30-50 eggs each.
Why Spotted Lanternflies Are a Problem
Spotted lanternflies are a problem because they feed on sap, weakening and reducing vital nutrients in trees and plants and making them more vulnerable to disease. The insects prefer fruit trees and can severely damage crops like grapes, apples, and hops. They leave behind a sugary waste called honeydew that promotes mold growth and attracts other pests, including wasps.
Read More: What Are Spotted Lanternflies & Why Are They So Bad?

How to Identify Spotted Lanternfly Eggs
Spotted lanternfly eggs are laid in clusters on trees and other hard, vertical surfaces. Egg masses are covered with a gray or tan, mud-like coating. This covering allows the eggs to survive through the winter. A cracked or broken covering will reveal rows of small, brown eggs. Egg masses can be found from early fall through the spring.