It's that time of year again - spring when all things bloom with color. Flowers pop, trees are lush green again and bees buzz to start pollinating. But with all the beauty that is emerging, there is one thing we are all dreading here in Pittsburgh - the spotted lantern fly infestation.

We all know what's coming. No one can forget what happened last summer on the East Coast, and the large numbers of this invasive pest seem to grow with every returning season leaving homeowners feeling helpless. 

But are we? Luckily, we've discovered some effective ways to kill masses of eggs that are usually found at the base of the tree. And right now is the best time to get to work and try and prevent them from hatching. Below we will talk about homemade lantern fly spray and YES! vinegar kills, but first, let's start to understand the problem so we can all do our part to stop the spread of these pests as much as possible.

Controlling Spotted Lanternflies: A Comprehensive Guide

 

What Are Lantern Flies and where did they come from? 

The invasive insect species, spotted lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula), present a significant threat to ecosystems and agriculture across the Eastern United States, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, West Virginia, and North Carolina. Originating from Eastern Asia, these pests have quickly adapted to new environments, infesting various host trees such as the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), willow trees, fruit trees, and grapevines. Their distinctive white spots, black stripes, and bright red wings make them easily recognizable, particularly in late April and early May when their life stages transition from nymphs to adults.

Understanding the Threat

Spotted lanternflies are invasive pests due to their ability to feed on over 70 different plant species, including woody plants and a host tree like apple trees. This poses a significant risk to agriculture, particularly in regions like Eastern (and Western) Pennsylvania, known for its apple orchards and vineyards. The insects' rapid reproduction and large populations exacerbate the problem, leading to widespread infestations that are challenging to control. Their life-cycle consists of several stages, starting with eggs laid in late fall on various surfaces such as tree bark and outdoor furniture. These eggs hatch into nymphs in early spring, progressing through instars before reaching adulthood. Adult lanternflies emerge in late spring or early summer, feeding on sap before laying eggs in the fall, completing the cycle.

How to Spot the Eggs

Spotted lanternflies lay their egg masses, resembling mud-like paste, on hard surfaces, including outdoor equipment, furniture, and lawn equipment, making it crucial to thoroughly inspect and remove them promptly. The eggs are often found in clusters on tree trunks, ornamental trees, and even plastic bags, facilitating their dispersal.
To prevent further spread, quarantined areas have even been established, such as in Berks County, Pennsylvania, where stringent regulations are enforced to contain infested materials. Will we have any in Pittsburgh soon?  

What damage do lantern flies cause? 

The presence of spotted lanternfly infestations can lead to secondary issues such as sooty mold, caused by the honeydew excreted by the insects, and an increase in populations of other pests like brown marmorated stink bugs (which we do not need more of here in Pittsburgh!) and yellow jackets. These pests, along with the spotted lanternflies' piercing-sucking mouthparts, can cause damage to fruit trees, grape vines, and other agricultural crops, further highlighting the urgency of effective control measures. Not to mention, just the fact that they take over whole areas of our backyards causing us to want to give up our precious outdoor areas.

There are natural predators that eat and kill lanternflies

Yes, these pests do have some natural predators (birds such as woodpeckers and starlings, spiders, and predatory insects are known to prey on spotted lanternflies) and there are other insects that do aid in managing spotted lanternflies. They cannot eliminate large populations entirely, but they can help keep numbers in check by contributing to integrated pest management efforts. We can do our part by encouraging biodiversity in the environment that will attract these natural predators and keep the populations of lanternflies down. By fostering diverse habitats and ecosystems, we create environments where natural predators of spotted lanternflies can thrive.

Homemade remedies that are proven to work

1. Sticky Tape.
Have some tape lying around at home? Get it ready. The use of sticky bands or tape is very effective at trapping spotted lanternflies. They also sell insecticide applications and tapes specifically for lantern files at local stores and online, too if you don't have any tape readily available. It is recommended that you place these bands or tape around tree trunks or other surfaces, which prevents nymphs and lanternfly adults from reaching higher parts of the tree where they feed and lay eggs. It isn't a set-it-and-forget-it routine though. Unfortunately, regular monitoring and replacement of these bands are necessary, especially during peak activity times in spring and summer. 

2. Vaccums and Water
How about that shop vac? Get your extra-long power cords out because yes, vacuum devices or high-pressure water sprays are an effective way to dislodge and remove lanternfly nymphs and adults from infested plants and lawn furniture.

3. Insecticidal soap and neem oil: Homemade Remedies and Sprays
For those preferring natural ways of control methods, homemade sprays can be effective against spotted lanternflies. A simple mixture of soapy water sprayed directly on nymphs and adults can suffocate them, disrupting their feeding and reproductive activities.  To make this spray, mix one quart of water with one cup of liquid soap and a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a spray bottle. Thoroughly coat affected areas, including tree trunks and foliage, to ensure maximum efficacy.

Another proven homemade concoction is hand sanitizer and liquid soap mixed with vinegar (dish soap works best). This is great to keep in a spray bottle to use to kill lanternflies directly on contact, particularly during the first time of year when they emerge as adults. These are great natural methods if you want to reduce the use of harsh chemicals in your own backyard areas. 

4. Chemical Control Options
In cases of severe infestations, chemical control may be necessary for lanternfly treatment. This insecticide application is absorbed by the different host plants they are sprayed on and eventually ingested by the feeding lanternflies, which can effectively control populations. However, remember to use these products judiciously and in accordance with local regulations to minimize environmental impact and avoid harm to the beneficial insects that are helping us with lanternfly control.

Taking Preventative Measures
It may not feel like it, but lanternflies have not reached all cracks and nooks in the Pittsburgh area, and preventing the spread of spotted lanternflies in these areas where they have not yet become established is critical. A quarantine zone, designated by the Department of Agriculture, is at the highest risk and should implement strict measures to prevent the movement of lanternfly eggs and nymphs to unaffected regions. 
 
Even if you are not in a high lanternfly population area, it's still a good practice to inspect your outdoor furniture, vehicles, and other items lying around outside for egg masses before you accidentally transport them (yikes!). We don't want to encourage to help spread haphazardly. Additionally, educating the public about the importance of early detection and reporting of spotted lanternfly sightings can aid in containment efforts. So be sure to share this article with all your friends and neighbors and make sure you're all on the same page to help eliminate lanternfly populations. Early detection and reporting of lanternfly sightings are crucial in identifying and responding to new infestations promptly. 

Resources:
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: 
PA Quarantine Maps
Full information on PA Quarantine Zones
Our local recommendations for professional lantern fly help? Dream Greener with Jon Stanton. Learn more here.