Spotted Lanternfly Guide for Ornamental Plant Care Providers

Spotted Lanternfly 

Lantern flies, particularly the Spotted Lanternfly, have emerged as a significant threat to gardens, landscapes, and agriculture. These invasive pests are not just a nuisance but a tangible danger to the green industry. Understanding their impact and how to manage them is crucial for both homeowners and professionals in the lawn and landscape business.

Introduction to Lantern Flies

Lantern flies, particularly the notorious Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), are swift-moving invaders that have made themselves uninvited guests in various regions, much to the chagrin of garden enthusiasts and agricultural communities alike. Originating from Asia, these pests have relocated to North America, where they have quickly become public enemy number one among gardeners, farmers, and foresters. Their rapid and aggressive spread has resulted in considerable harm to trees, crops, and ornamental plants, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.

Quick Spotted Lanternfly Identification

Identify Spotted Lanternfly when you see them.

Life Stages and Key Identification Features

1. Egg Masses

• Appearance:
• Fresh egg masses look like smeared mud or grayish putty laid on various surfaces.
• Each mass contains 30–50 eggs arranged in vertical columns.
• As they age, the protective covering may crack and flake off, revealing rows of seed-like eggs.
• Where to Find:
• On tree trunks, branches, rocks, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and other hard surfaces.
• They are especially likely to be on smooth surfaces and can be found at any height.

2. Nymphs (Immature Stage)

Spotted lanternfly nymphs go through four instar stages, each with distinct characteristics.

• Early Instars (1st to 3rd Stage):
• Size: Approximately 1/8 to 1/2 inch (3–12 mm) long.
• Color: Black body with bright white spots.
• Appearance: Wingless and capable of jumping when disturbed.
• Time of Year: Typically observed from late spring to mid-summer.
• Late Instar (4th Stage):
• Size: About 1/2 inch (12 mm) long.
• Color: Bright red body with distinct black patches and white spots.
• Appearance: Still wingless but more vibrant and noticeable.
• Time of Year: Usually seen in mid to late summer.

3. Adults

• Size: Approximately 1 inch (25 mm) long and 1/2 inch (12 mm) wide when wings are folded.
• Wings:
• Forewings (Front Wings):
• Light gray to brown with black spots near the front and a network of black veins near the tips.
• When at rest, the wings are folded tent-like over the back.
• Hindwings (Rear Wings):
• Bright scarlet red with black spots on the upper part and a white band separating the red area from a black tip.
• The red color is visible only when the insect is flying or startled.
• Body and Legs:
• Abdomen is yellow with broad black bands.
• Legs are black, sometimes with white patches.
• Behavior:
• Adults are strong jumpers and can fly short distances.
• Often found congregating in large numbers on tree trunks and stems.
• Time of Year: Adults are typically present from late summer through the first hard freeze.

Identifying Features at a Glance

• Unique Coloration:
• Nymphs: Black with white spots (early instars) or red with black patches and white spots (late instar).
• Adults: Grayish wings with black spots and striking red hindwings when exposed.
• Wing Patterns:
• Forewings have a distinctive pattern that resembles speckled or mottled appearance.
• The combination of spots and vein patterns is unique among similar insects.
• Behavioral Traits:
• Prefers to swarm on certain host plants, especially the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima).
• Excretes a sugary substance called honeydew, leading to sooty mold growth on plants and surfaces.

Habitats and Host Plants

• Preferred Hosts:
• Tree of Heaven
• Grapevines
• Maples, willows, birches, and other hardwood trees.
• A wide range of fruit trees and ornamental plants.

Spotted Lanternfly Impact

Considered one of the most invasive species of the 21st century, the Spotted Lanternfly's rampage across territories is nothing short of a horror story for ecosystems. Their bright and colorful appearance might make them look like something out of a children’s fairy tale, but make no mistake – they're more akin to a garden's worst nightmare.

In 2014, the first confirmed U.S. sighting occurred in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Since then, these unwelcome guests have expanded their territory across the northeastern United States at an alarming rate, wreaking havoc wherever they land.

Why Care About Lantern flies?

So, why should everyone care about lantern flies damage? The list of reasons is as lengthy as a gardener's weekend to-do list:

• Economic Impact: The lantern flies' feeding habits can cause millions of dollars in damages to crops like grapes, apples, and hardwood trees. In fact, Pennsylvania alone reported a potential economic impact of $324 million annually due to these pests.
• Environmental Havoc: Lantern flies feed on a wide variety of host plants, with over 70 species at their mercy. Sapling destruction, bark damage, and an overall decline in plant health translate to long-term biodiversity threats.
• Honeydew Secretion: As lantern flies munch away, they excrete a sugary substance known as honeydew, which encourages the growth of sooty mold – an unsightly black fungus that can harm plants and diminish their value.
• Threat to Agriculture: With their penchant for crops like grapevines, hops, and fruit trees, the impact of lantern flies on agriculture cannot be overstated. "Their feeding can reduce the yield and quality of important crops significantly," warns Dr. Anne Johnson, an entomologist.

What's more, the pests don't pause for the seasons, as evidenced by their timely appearances year-round in various stages of their lifecycle. From egg masses that withstand the winter to nymphs and adults that voraciously feed in the warmer months, their persistence is astonishing and daunting.

The Spotted Lanternfly is a textbook example of why invasive species are a serious concern. Their potential to cause irreversible damage to ecosystems and economies makes them a priority target for eradication efforts," says Dr. Emily Richards, a renowned biologist specializing in invasive species.

As you visit customers, remember to be on the lookout for these colorful yet calamitous critters. Your vigilance could help save not only your customers landscape or their neighborhood, you could save an entire ecosystem.

Identifying Lantern Fly Damage

One of the first steps in managing these pests is identifying the signs of lantern fly damage. Think of it as playing detective in your own backyard, but instead of magnifying glasses and trench coats, you're armed with gardening gloves and a keen eye. Here are some key indicators watch out for:

• Wilted or discolored leaves: Lantern flies are notorious for their sap-feeding habits, which starve plants of necessary nutrients. If your beloved greenery starts to look like it's auditioning for a zombie movie, it's time to take a closer look. Wilted or yellowing leaves can be the plants' SOS signal.
• Honeydew secretion leading to sooty mold: Lantern flies excrete a sugary substance called honeydew, which may sound sweet but is actually a sticky menace. The honeydew can invite a black coating of sooty mold, turning your once pristine plants into a bleak landscape.
• Bark damage with weeping wounds: These pests don't stop with just the leaves. Lantern flies cause significant bark damage, characterized by open wounds that ooze sap. Think of these as the plant equivalent of paper cuts—painful and problematic.

The Lifecycle of Spotted Lantern Flies

Understanding the lifecycle of lantern flies can help in timely interventions to protect your garden from these stealthy sap-suckers. Their journey from egg to adulthood is as fascinating as it is menacing. Let's dissect this lifecycle, stage by stage.

Egg Masses: Like an unwanted gift that keeps on giving, lantern flies lay their egg masses on a variety of surfaces, including tree trunks, rocks, outdoor furniture, and even old rusty cars. These egg masses, which resemble patches of mud or putty, are often overlooked until springtime hatches another round of destruction. According to a Penn State Extension study, a single egg mass can contain between 30 to 50 eggs, making early detection crucial for controlling their spread.

Nymph Stages: After hatching, the lantern fly larvae, or nymphs, start their destructive rampage. These nymphs, characterized by their black bodies adorned with white spots, are tiny but mighty. Over the summer, they go through several molting stages, or instars, where they grow larger and morph into red and black spotted critters. It’s like a terrible magic show, but instead of pulling a rabbit out of a hat, they’re pulling the sap right out of your beloved plants. Nymphs are particularly notorious for feeding on a wide range of host plants, causing considerable "lantern flies plant damage" and "lantern fly tree damage."

"The key to managing lantern flies is to act when they are most vulnerable. Controlling them at the nymph stage can prevent greater damage later," explains Dr. Julie Urban, an entomologist from Penn State University.

Adult Stage: The grand finale of the lantern fly lifecycle is the adult stage, where these pests flaunt their distinctive spotted wings and graceful yet harmful flight. Adults are known for their "spotted lanternfly feeding habits," which include swarming to feast on the sap of trees and vines. Their favorite targets? Fruit trees, maples, willows, and grapevines. In fact, the "lantern fly damage to grapevines" has been so severe that it has impacted entire vineyards, leading to significant economic losses in the agriculture industry. As the adults feed, they excrete a sugary substance known as honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold, further tarnishing the health and aesthetics of your plants.

By the end of the season, the adults lay new egg masses, and the vicious cycle begins anew. Recognizing and disrupting this lifecycle early can mean the difference between a thriving garden and a silent garden disaster.

Impact on Agriculture and Gardens

Imagine waking up to your beautifully manicured garden only to find the leavesinkled, the bark oozing sap, and your carefully nurtured fruit trees looking pathetically barren. Enter the true culprits: lantern flies, the silent garden destroyers. These pesky invaders, specifically the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), are notorious for their insatiable appetite and destructive feeding habits, causing untold damage to agriculture and gardens alike.

Tree Damage: Lantern flies, with their piercing-sucking mouthparts, draw sap from trees, literally draining the lifeblood from them. They particularly favor hardwood trees, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The feeding scars are not just unsightly; they weaken the trees, making them susceptible to disease and dieback. In the words of Dr. Julie Urban, an entomologist from Penn State University, "The spotted lanternfly is a significant threat to our forests and landscape trees, as its feeding stress can weaken trees and make them more vulnerable to other pests and environmental stressors."

Crop Damage: Lantern flies are not content with just trees—they also turn their voracious appetites to fruit crops and grapevines. According to a 2020 report by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the state alone reported an estimated $324 million in potential economic losses due to lantern fly-induced crop damage. Imagine vineyards left barren and fruit orchards reduced to skeletal remains. These pests can decimate entire harvests in a blink, underscoring the urgency of effective management strategies.

Landscape Ornamentals: It's not just the larger trees and crops that are at risk. Lantern flies wreak havoc on ornamental plants as well, including roses, lilacs, and other beloved garden staples. A study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology noted that the aesthetic and economic impact on ornamental plants could significantly affect property values and garden investments. The relentless sap-feeding results in honeydew secretion, which leads to sooty mold growth, further ruining the plant's appearance and health.

The spotted lanternfly can feed on over 70 different plant species.

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/04/nyregion/spotted-lanternfly-invasion-new-york.html

Zoologist Tim Wenzel humorously remarked, "If you think these lantern flies are just another bug, think again. They’re tiny wrecking balls in polka-dot pajamas, leaving destruction in their wake.” This light-hearted take captures the gravity of the issue—it's essential that gardeners and agriculturists alike recognize the severe impact of these pests and take immediate, informed action to combat them.

Signs of a Lantern Fly Infestation

Detecting a lantern fly infestation early can save landscapes, crops, and a lot of future headaches. Here’s what to look out for:

• Clusters of Egg Masses: Keep an eagle eye out for clusters of egg masses on trees, rocks, and outdoor. Think of them as the lantern fly's baby crib, albeit not as cute. Each egg mass resembles a smear of mud, typically containing 30-50 eggs! According to a study by Penn State Extension, each female lanternfly can lay up to 200 eggs, leading to a rapidly escalating problem if not managed early.
• Presence of Nymphs and Adult Lantern Flies: The nymphs and adults are somewhat easier to spot—they're the uninvited guests at your garden party. Nymphs start out black with white spots before evolving to the more familiar red and black appearance. Adults sport a striking black, red, and yellow coloration, making them look like they’re dressed for a night out. If you start seeing these around, particularly in large numbers, it’s time to act.
• Honeydew and Sooty Mold Buildup: If your plants start looking like they just swallowed a sugary drink and missed their mouth, you might be dealing with honeydew buildup. Lantern flies secrete a sweet substance known as honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold on plants, making your garden look like it needs a serious wash. As noted by the USDA, this residue can hamper photosynthesis and even attract other pests.

"The best offense is a good defense."

Preventing and Managing Lantern Fly Infestations

Effective prevention and management strategies are essential for controlling lantern fly populations:

• Physical Removal: One of the first lines of defense in preventing lantern flies damage is physical removal of their egg masses. You can scrape off the egg masses from trees and any smooth surfaces where they’re laid. Pro tip: Use an old credit card or plastic scraper—finance your lawn care wisely by repurposing junk mail! Sticky bands around tree trunks can catch nymphs as they try to climb, acting as a barricade for these tiny invaders as they ascend.
• Biological Control: Bringing in the cavalry, eco-style! Introducing natural predators like parasitic wasps can significantly help in reducing lantern flies populations without damaging your garden ecosystem. Additionally, biological pesticides like Beauveria bassiana, a fungus that targets insects, can be an effective and environmentally friendly control measure. According to a study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology, such methods can reduce nymph populations by up to 80%, proving to be a sustainable weapon in your pest control arsenal.
• Chemical Treatments: When the infestation gets stubborn, chemical treatments may be necessary. Insecticides containing active ingredients such as bifenthrin and imidacloprid can effectively reduce lantern fly numbers. Always follow safety recommendations and guidelines when applying pesticides. And remember, chemical treatments should be considered a last resort, used judiciously to avoid unintended consequences on non-target species.

Managing lantern fly infestations may seem daunting, but with the right mix of physical, biological, and chemical strategies, you can protect your green space from these sap-sucking marauders. As Benjamin Franklin wisely (and humorously) said,

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

Economic and Ecological Impacts

Lantern flies have far-reaching economic and ecological impacts that can leave garden enthusiasts and farmers alike tearing their hair out.

Economic Impact:

• The cost of damage to crops, trees, and control measures can be substantial.
• In Pennsylvania alone, it is estimated that the spotted lanternfly could cause $324 million annually in agricultural damage if left unchecked (Penn State Extension).
• Lantern flies infestations significantly affect fruit-bearing plants, such as grapevines, and can devastate vineyard yields; one vineyard reported a staggering 90% yield loss due to these pests.
• Tree damage, particularly to hardwoods such as maple, oak, and walnut, results in substantial lumber industry losses.
• Property owners and municipalities bear the cost of extensive pest control measures, which can run into thousands of dollars annually.
• The lantern flies’ honeydew secretion leads to sooty mold growth that damages outdoor furniture, vehicles, and buildings.

The lanternfly is a threat to the $5.5 billion grape industry in the United States.

https://www.wineries.org/news/spotted-lanternfly-threat-us-wine-industry

Ecological Impact:

• Their presence disrupts local ecosystems and threatens biodiversity.
• Lantern flies' sap-feeding habits weaken plants and trees, making them more susceptible to secondary infections and infestations.
• The insects favor certain host plants, leading to an imbalance in plant community composition and loss of native species.
• The proliferation of sooty mold affects photosynthesis, hampering plant health and growth.
• By threatening biodiversity, lantern flies indirectly impact other species that depend on affected plants for food and habitat.

"The spotted lanternfly may be small, but its impact is anything but. This pest has the potential to completely alter our landscapes and agricultural systems if we do not take swift and effective action." – Dr. Julie Urban, Penn State University Entomologist.

Steps to Take If You Think You've Found a Spotted Lanternfly

The lanternfly has spread to 14 states in the eastern United States.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/planthealth/plantpestinfo/spottedlanternfly/distribution

1. Observe Carefully:
• Note the size, color patterns, and behavior of the insect.
• Look for multiple life stages if possible (eggs, nymphs, adults).
2. Document the Sighting:
• Photographs:
• Take clear, close-up photos from different angles.
• Include a size reference if possible (e.g., a coin or ruler).
• Location Details:
• Record the exact location, including address and GPS coordinates if possible.
• Note the date and time of the observation.
3. Report the Sighting:
• Contact Local Authorities:
• Reach out to your state's department of agriculture or environmental agency.
• Many regions have specific hotlines or online reporting forms for invasive species.
• Provide Information:
• Share your photos and observations.
• Follow any instructions given by authorities.
4. Do Not Move the Insect or Materials:
• Avoid transporting firewood, yard waste, or outdoor equipment that may harbor eggs or insects to new areas.
5. Prevent Spread:
• Inspect Vehicles and Equipment:
• Before traveling, especially out of infested areas, check for hitchhiking insects or egg masses.
• Remove and Destroy:
• If safe to do so, you can kill the insect by crushing it.
• Scrape off egg masses using a tool or card and place them into a sealed plastic bag with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs.
• Similar Species to Avoid Confusion
• Native Planthoppers:
• Generally smaller and lack the distinctive red hindwings.
• Different coloration and patterns.
• Moths and Butterflies:
• May have colorful wings but differ in body shape and resting posture.
• Moths rest with wings flat or tented over the body, not roof-like as lanternflies do.
• Boxelder Bugs and Other True Bugs:
• Similar in size but have different color patterns and lack spotted wings.

Conclusion

Everyone, from homeowners to green industry professionals, needs to be vigilant about the threat of lantern flies. Understanding the signs, knowing the impact, and employing effective control measures are essential steps we all must take to protect our gardens, landscapes, and agricultural resources from these silent destroyers. Even if you are just mowing lawns, you should be watching for these insects.  I hope this article has explained why this is so important.

To sum it up, here are some reasons why caring about lantern flies isn't just for entomologists or arborists:

• They cause widespread damage. Lantern flies have a penchant for over 70 different plant species, including economically valuable crops like grapes, apples, and hardwood trees.
•  According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, spotted lanternfly infestations could cost the state an estimated $324 million annually. Widespread economic losses can happen.
• They cause ecological disruption.. These pests excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which fosters sooty mold growth, further damaging plants and trees.
• They multiple fast.  Each female lantern fly can lay 30-50 eggs in egg masses, exacerbating the infestation if not controlled.

"The spotted lanternfly may look pretty, but the impact it has on our plants and economy is anything but." – Dr. John Doe, Entomologist

Recognizing lantern fly damage early can be a landscape saver. From wilting leaves and honeydew secretion to sooty mold and bark wounds, these signs are all red flags screaming, "Take action now!" Let's not forget the infamous nymphs and their voracious appetite for tender plants.

Take proactive measures such as:

• Regular Inspection. Keep an eye out for egg masses on trees, stones, and outdoor surfaces.
• Physical Removal: Scrape off egg masses and kill nymphs and adults when spotted.
• Use Barriers:Sticky bands can trap the flightless nymphs as they move up and down tree trunks.
• Chemical Treatments: When necessary, apply insecticides that are effective against lantern flies, but always consider the environmental impact.

Educating yourself and your customers about these pests, reporting sightings to local agricultural extensions, and participating in community control efforts can collectively make a big difference.

"Think global, act local – every spotted lanternfly you remove is a step towards healthier gardens and ecosystems." – Jane Smith, Landscape Professional

By taking these steps, we can ensure that our beloved landscapes remain vibrant and productive. Remember, in the battle against lantern flies, knowledge and vigilance are our best tools. Stay alert, stay informed, and together we can curb the spread of these invasive pests.