The spotted lanternfly may have a striking appearance, but it poses a serious threat to various plants, trees, and crops in the D.C. metropolitan area.
These invasive pests first made their presence known in the United States in 2014, having been discovered in Berks County, Pennsylvania.
Today, they are found in at least 18 states, thought to have arrived on American soil via stone shipments from Asia.
As an invasive species with no natural predators in the U.S., spotted lanternflies have proliferated, wreaking havoc on their hosts by feeding on their sap and draining their energy.
Moreover, their waste creates a black, sooty mold that can cover plants and trees, obstructing photosynthesis and potentially leading to the demise of affected vegetation, according to the D.C. Department of Transportation’s Urban Forestry Division.
Many residents are asking why there seems to be an increase in spotted lanternfly sightings around the D.C. region.
There are several factors at play.
First, the geographic range of these pests has expanded significantly since their introduction.
Second, they spread mainly through egg masses that hitch rides on vehicles, making it easy for new infestations to occur.
Lastly, as their population grows, the presence of adult spotted lanternflies becomes more noticeable, adding to the perception of an increase.
Despite the alarm many feel, it’s important to know that spotted lanternflies are not a direct threat to personal gardens.
However, they do pose a significant risk to local agriculture, especially vineyards, as they target grapevines.
To manage the lanternfly population, residents may have heard that squishing them is one effective method.
While crushing individual bugs can contribute to control efforts, it isn’t sufficient to significantly alter the overall population, according to entomologist Mike Raupp from the University of Maryland.
Instead, he recommends several strategies:
Using a vacuum to remove the insects from trees.
Applying specific pesticides designed to combat these pests.
Contacting an arborist to help eradicate egg masses.
Additionally, there are over 1,000 reports of various species, such as spiders, insects, and birds, preying on spotted lanternflies, which can help manage their numbers naturally.
If you happen upon an egg mass before the eggs hatch, it’s crucial to act swiftly.
You can destroy the mass by scraping it into a plastic bag filled with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol, sealing the bag, and disposing of it in the trash, as recommended by the USDA.
Pressure washing can also effectively eliminate egg masses found on hard surfaces outside of trees.
In Washington, D.C., residents who spot a lanternfly are encouraged to report their sightings online.
The same applies to observations of egg masses.
In Maryland, citizens can also submit reports including photographs for verification.
Most counties are under a quarantine area, except for St. Mary’s, Dorchester, Somerset, and Worcester counties.
In Virginia, reports of lanternflies are not required within several designated counties and cities.
However, for areas outside of the established quarantine, officials urge residents to report any lanternfly sightings.
Awareness and education about managing spotted lanternflies are vital in the fight against this invasive species that threatens local ecosystems and agriculture.
image source from：wusa9
