The Spotted Lanternfly!
- dianegeesey
- Aug 22, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 24
OH NO! They’re heeeeere!
I am never one to propose violence, but if you see this bug, PLEASE SQUISH IT! SQUASH IT! SMASH IT! Preferably all three of those things!!
First spotted in Pennsylvania in 2014, this nasty insect that is native to eastern Asia is wreaking havoc in multiple east US states—and is spreading at a depressing rate of speed.
Why is it so awful about it? This sucker (pun intended) feeds on important native and agricultural plants, weakening the plant, tree, or vine. They seem to be most drawn to grapevine and tree-of-heaven, and they sometimes feast to such an extent that the plant cannot recover. As it sucks the sap, it emits a “honeydew” that promotes mold which can further weaken and/or destroy the plant as well as whatever is growing under the plant!
Being non-native, they have no natural enemies to help keep them in check. However, citizen brigades reporting to such organizations as Audubon and Penn State report that birds, spiders, and praying mantises have been seen consuming them. Penn State is conducting research to find out more about keeping these little monsters under control, and their website has reliable information for not only agricultural businesses but also home gardeners or, well, everyone! They also have a page where you can report not only if you have seen the pest in your area, but how many, what plant were they on, etc.
Since they are here to stay, we will need to learn ways to limit their devastation. The best way to do this is through observation and reporting. Although grapevine is reportedly one of its favorites, at my house the little buggers skipped the grapevine in favor of my cucumber plants. Never thought I would miss the day when squash bugs were my arch-enemy in the garden!
Update for end of Aug 2022. Here is what the beginning of the “honeydew” damage that was mentioned earlier in this article.
Comments