The Spotted Lantern Fly is coming! What are they and what can you do to protect your yard from them?
By now you’ve probably seen, or at least heard about this new pest making it’s way to a back yard near you…
What is a Spotted Lanternfly?
The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a planthopper insect indigenous to parts of China and Vietnam. It was accidentally introduced into South Korea and has spread invasively to Japan and the United States.
Why is the Spotted Lanternfly such a problem?
Spotted lanternflies are bad because they damage and kill plants by feeding on their sap, which can devastate crops, leading to significant economic losses. They also excrete a sticky, sugary liquid called honeydew that promotes the growth of sooty mold, which further stresses and harms plants. Additionally, they are a nuisance to people (but not pose direct danger to humans through biting or stinging), creating messy, mold-covered surfaces and swarming in large numbers.
They have a voracious appetite, and its preferred host is the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), but it also feeds on other trees, and on crops including soybean, grapes, fruit trees, and other ornamental annuals and perennials. The piercing wounds caused by their mouthparts and the honeydew waste they excrete are harmful to the health of host plants.
What can I do to combat the Spotted Lanterfly?
If you wish to try and eliminate Spotted Lanternfly infestations by yourself, mix a spray bottle of equal parts white vinegar, dish soap, and water; and spray the infestation and area thoroughly.
If you need the help of a professional, Key2Green is pesticide-licensed to spray using 2 effective methods:
An instant contact-kill pesticide application (Bifenthrin). Bifenthrin is a pyrethroid and a contact insecticide, meaning it kills lanternflies when they come into direct contact with the treated surface.
A longer-term systemic pesticide application (Dinotefuran). Dinotefuran is absorbed by the tree of plants and kill the spotted lanternflies when they feed on the sap.
Contact me now for a free estimate, and let me help you with the Key2Green!
