As a company committed to protecting the health of our trees, Titan Tree Care wants to inform you about a concerning invasive species: the spotted lanternfly. Originating from Asia, the spotted lanternfly has become a significant pest in Maryland and other parts of the United States.

The spotted lanternfly is a significant threat to trees due to their voracious feeding habits and ability to reproduce rapidly. These pests feed on over 70 plant species, by feeding on the sap of these plants, they weaken the trees, making them more susceptible to disease and other pests. In addition to harming the health of individual trees, their feeding can lead to reduced yields in orchards and vineyards, causing substantial economic damage to the agricultural and forestry industries. When they feed, they excrete a sticky fluid that causes mold  and attracts other insects, further damaging plants. The rapid spread of the spotted lanternfly also threatens ecosystems by disrupting the balance of native species and compromising the overall health of forests and cultivated lands across the country.

What Does the Spotted Lanternfly Look Like?

The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has a distinctive appearance that makes it relatively easy to identify:

• Nymphs (Early Stages): These are small (about 1/4 inch), wingless, and black with bright white spots. As they mature, nymphs develop red patches in addition to the white spots.
• Adults: Adult spotted lanternflies are about 1 inch long and feature a striking combination of colors. Their forewings are light brown with black spots, while the hindwings are red with black spots. When at rest, their wings fold back, revealing a unique pattern of spots and stripes. Their abdomen is yellow with black bands.

What Do Spotted Lanternflies Feed On?

Spotted lanternflies have a broad host range, feeding on the sap of over 70 different plant species. They are particularly drawn to the following:

• Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): This is their preferred host. The tree of heaven, also an invasive species, is commonly found along roadsides and disturbed areas.
• Other Trees: They also feed on a variety of trees including maples, oaks, pines, and fruit trees such as apple and grapevines. This feeding can cause significant damage, especially to economically important plants and trees.

What to Do If You See a Spotted Lanternfly?

If you spot a spotted lanternfly on your property, it is crucial to act quickly to prevent its spread. Here’s what you can do:

1. Report It: Immediately report any sightings to the Maryland Department of Agriculture or your local extension office. You can also report them directly to the USDA via their online portal at USDA.gov.
2. Destroy Them: If safe to do so, kill the spotted lanternfly. Adults and nymphs can be squashed, and egg masses can be scraped off surfaces and placed in a bag filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs.
3. Inspect and Remove Egg Masses: During the fall and winter months, inspect trees, outdoor equipment, and structures for egg masses, which look like smears of mud. Destroy any egg masses you find.
4. Limit Movement of Outdoor Items: The spotted lanternfly can easily hitch a ride on vehicles, firewood, and other outdoor items. Be mindful of moving such items from areas known to be infested with spotted lanternflies.

At Titan Tree Care, we are here to help with any tree concerns you may have. If you suspect an infestation or need assistance in managing your trees, contact us for a consultation. Together, we can help protect Maryland’s beautiful landscape.

For more information, visit the USDA’s official page on the spotted lanternfly here.

Sources:

• USDA.gov – Spotted Lanternfly Information

By staying informed and vigilant, we can all play a part in managing the threat of the spotted lanternfly. Let’s work together to protect our trees and our community.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or need assistance. We’re here to help!