NYC Spotted Lanternfly Pest Control
The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is an unwelcome invasive pest that has taken root in several U.S. regions, including the Bronx and Manhattan. Originally hailing from East Asia, these destructive insects can cause serious damage to crops, landscapes, and a wide variety of trees.
Spotted Lanternflies wreak havoc on trees by feeding on their sap. This sap extraction weakens the plants and disrupts photosynthesis, the essential process by which trees convert sunlight into energy for growth and health. As SLFs feed, they also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. This honeydew creates a double threat: it attracts sooty mold, a black fungus that further weakens the tree by blocking sunlight, and it also attracts other insects that can inflict additional damage. Learn more about their nests here.
How to Identify a Spotted Lanternfly Infestation
Spotted lanternflies cause tell-tale damage, making an infestation noticeable. Here’s what to watch for on your trees and property:
- Adults: These striking insects are about 1 inch long. They evolve through different stages, so you might encounter:
- Early Nymphs: Black with white dots
- Later Nymphs: Red with black and white markings
- Adults: Red and black wings with spotted patterns (wings may be closed or open)
- Sap and Honeydew: SLFs feed on sap, leaving weeping wounds on trunks and branches. They excrete a sticky ‘honeydew’ that coats leaves, branches, or objects under the tree.
- Sooty Mold: A black, powdery fungus that thrives on honeydew, often covering surfaces around infected trees.
- Swarms of Insects: SLFs can gather in large numbers, making them even more noticeable.
- Egg Masses: From fall through spring, look for grayish, mud-like egg masses laid on tree trunks, branches, or even nearby outdoor furniture and equipment.
High-Risk Trees In NYC
- Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): Unfortunately, the SLF loves this invasive tree. It’s also common in NYC, making infestation a major concern.
- Maples: Particularly the silver and red maple tree are frequently targeted by the lanternfly.
- Black Walnut
- River Birch: Betula nigra can suffer greatly.
- Willow Tree: Can suffer from the feeding habits of the lanternfly.
- Sumac
- Black Cherry Tree & other fruit trees: Apple, Peach, Plum, Hops, Ornamental plants like roses and vines.
- London Plane
What To Do When You Find Lanternflies
Spotted lanternflies cause tell-tale damage, making an infestation noticeable. Here’s what to watch for on your trees and property:
- Squish and Dispose: The simplest and most immediate action is to kill the lanternfly. Squish it underfoot or use any available means to neutralize it. Dispose of the remains in a sealed bag or container.
- Report the Sighting: While killing lanternflies on sight is crucial, reporting your encounter is equally important. This helps authorities track the spread and intensity of the infestation, allowing them to allocate resources effectively. You can report sightings through the following channels:
- NYC 311: Use the NYC311 app or website to report the sighting.
- New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets: Submit a report online or email spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov.
- Call a Tree Service: Services like ours remove their nest, which is frequently the weed tree also known as the ailanthus tree & Tree of Heaven which is an invasive tree in New York City. We remove the tree, and the lanternflies go with it.
- Collect a Sample (Optional) Collect a sample of the lanternfly (dead or alive) and place it in a sealed container with alcohol or hand sanitizer. This can be submitted along with your report for identification and further analysis.
- Inspect for Egg Masses: Lanternflies lay eggs that resemble mud or putty patches. Thoroughly inspect trees, plants, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and any other surfaces where egg masses might be hidden. Scrape off any egg masses and destroy them by submerging them in alcohol or hand sanitizer.
- Spread the Word: Educate your friends, family, and neighbors about spotted lanternflies and encourage them to take similar action if they encounter these pests. The more people involved in the fight against lanternflies, the better equipped we'll be to control their population.
