Spotted Lanternfly – Unwanted on Long Island!

Spotted Lanternfly (SLF), an invasive insect from Asia, has been ‘spotted’ all over Long Island. Although a relatively new pest, sightings and complaints continue to grow at a rapid pace. It’s time to be aware of Spotted Lanternfly; read on.

Is SLF a moth? Although the resemblance leads you to think it is a moth, it is a planthopper. Considered by all to be a nuisance, it will feed on a variety of ornamental plants that we enjoy in our home gardens and landscapes. Farmers and growers of grapes and other agricultural food crops are particularly concerned about the spread and damage caused by this pest.

Here are the lifecycle facts about SLF: overwintering eggs hatch into nymphs that walk and jump; adults walk, jump, and fly short distances. You may notice small nymphs on stems and leaves. As they grow, their presence becomes more noticeable as they change from black with dots to red with black and white markings. They change from nymph to adult in a matter of weeks. Adult planthoppers are noticeable when you see the red underwings, or the abundant excretion of sticky honeydew and the associated growth of sooty mold on plants. Sooty mold, while harmless to people, can limit one’s enjoyment of outdoor spaces. SLF damage can include wilting, leaf curling, and dieback on plants.

If you can catch the nymphs or adults, and it is tricky to catch them, step on them! Be on the lookout for adults that hitchhike on trucks, campers, firewood. Worth mentioning – stop the adults to reduce future egg masses. Nymph and adult management include Harris Spotted Lanternfly insecticide that is labeled for use in New York. Finding and destroying egg masses during the winter is also recommended for SLF.