SQUASH. SCRAPE. REPORT.

The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is a destructive and invasive planthopper that feeds voraciously on over 70 plants, including fruit trees, hops, hardwoods, and ornamentals. The bug also impacts the agriculture industry as it feeds on crops and dramatically reduces harvests. Its ability to travel makes the Spotted Lanternfly particularly dangerous for trees and crops across the United States and requires immediate action to reduce the spread of this harmful species.

First detected in Southeastern, PA in 2014, Montgomery County has been under quarantine for the insect since November 2017. To learn more about what the quarantine means for you as a homeowner click here for a check list or click here to view the "How You Can Comply with the Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Regulations" handout. 

 The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is advising citizens to SQUASH any SLFs you see, SCRAPE away any egg masses you find and REPORT any sightings.

According to the Penn State Extension, if you think your plants may have SLF do not panic. To learn all about the SLF including reporting, identification, management, compliance and permits, please click here to be taken to the PennState Extension webpage.

1. Make sure the insect is the Spotted Lanternfly

Below you will images of the Spotted Lanternfly and its life cycle. For larger images and descriptions, click here to visit Penn State Extension's webpage that can help you identify the insect and report it to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. 

For questions or to report a sighting of the spotted lanternfly call 1-888-4BAD-FLY (1-888-422-3359) or click here to report a sighting digitally. 

2. Learn about its life cycle and habits

Information about the Spotted Lanternfly's life cycle can be found by clicking here or looking at the illustration below.

3. Determine what plants are infested and what are not

4. Employ management strategies at the proper time of year

Click here to download PennState Extensions Homeowners Management Strategies and click here to download the "Spotted Fly Management Calendar."

Management strategies may include:

1. Scraping eggs from a plant with a plastic card or knife into a container with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer

2. Tree branding, the application of a sticky tape to a tree to trap nymphs

3. Treating host plants

a. Chemical control, please view more information by clicking here

b. Click here for information on choosing a qualified pest management or lawn care company.

The three illustrations below provided by the Penn State Extension can help you better identify and understand the SLF.

Actual Images of Spotted Lanternfly's Life Cycle:

Illustration of  the Spotted Lanternfly's Life Cycle by Annual Cycle:

More questions? Visit PennState Extension's Frequently Asked Questions page by clicking here.

Image and Illustration Credit:  PennState Extension and Nick Sloff, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, and Colleen Witkowski

References: PennState Extension, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture