If you find this insect, get rid of it without delay!

A Personal Encounter with Lanternflies

I’ve never been a fan of bugs, and I think many can agree. While some insects are beautiful, others can be unsettling, and a few are downright harmful. Lanternflies are among the latter.

Why Lanternflies Matter

The lanternfly, or Lycorma delicatula, is one pest you need to remove immediately. These insects have invaded my backyard, congregating on my favorite maple tree. At first glance, they might seem striking with their colorful wings, but don’t be deceived. These pests are destructive.

What is a Lanternfly?

Despite their charming name, lanternflies are serious pests. Originating in China, they were first spotted in Pennsylvania in 2014. Since then, they’ve spread across multiple states, causing harm to both commercial farms and personal gardens.

The Damage They Cause

Lanternflies feed on plant sap, weakening trees and plants. The sticky honeydew they excrete encourages the growth of sooty mold, blocking photosynthesis. As a result, my once vibrant maple leaves turned dull and blackened as the mold spread.

Identifying Lanternflies

Lanternflies are easy to spot. Adults are about an inch long, with gray wings marked with black spots and bright red underwings. Juvenile nymphs are black with white spots, turning red before maturing.

Their Feeding Process

Using a needle-like mouthpart, lanternflies pierce plants to access sap. This method is highly efficient, draining the plant’s energy and weakening it. Watching them feed is both fascinating and horrifying.

First Sightings in the U.S.

Lanternflies first appeared in Pennsylvania, likely arriving on goods from Asia. They’ve spread across the East Coast and are now expanding into other regions with suitable climates and host plants.

What to Do If You Spot One

If you see a lanternfly, it’s crucial to act fast. Squash the adults or nymphs to limit their population. While it might seem harsh, it’s necessary to prevent further damage.

Destroying Lanternfly Eggs

A highly effective method to control their population is destroying their eggs. These gray, mud-like egg masses appear on smooth surfaces such as tree bark and furniture. Scrape them off and dispose of them in a bag with alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs.

Other Pests to Consider

While lanternflies are a significant threat, other pests like cutworms can also damage your garden. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to protect your plants from such pests.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with lanternflies has taught me the importance of taking stronger action against destructive insects. If you spot one, remember the damage they can cause and take immediate action. By doing so, we can protect our plants and help prevent the spread of these pests. Let’s take responsibility for managing the problem and maintaining healthy ecosystems.