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Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) (SLF) is an invasive insect originating from Asia, first detected in the U.S. (Pennsylvania) in 2014.

For more information about SLF, including lifecycle, host plants, impacts and current research check out these links:  

Spotted Lanternfly, Maryland Department of Agriculture 

Spotted Lanternfly, Penn State Extension 

What is Spotted Lanternfly?, YouTube video, Penn State Extension 

Researchers suspect that this pest hitchhiked to the U.S. on imported goods from its native range. Since 2014, SLF has spread to 17 states including Maryland. As SLF reproduces and increases in population, we see more in our natural and residential areas.  

SLFs preferred host plant is non-native invasive tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) (TOH), also originating from Asia. TOH is found in 42 states and has been established and abundant in our region for many years. Simply put, SLF has many host plants to eat and reproduce on in Columbia.  

For more information on TOH including biology, ecology, impacts and control methods check out these links:  

Tree-of-heaven Fact Sheet, Blue Ridge Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management  

Tree-of-Heaven: Best Herbicide Treatment and Removal Timing, Rutgers Cooperative Extension 

Tree-of-heaven, Penn State Extension 

Tree-of-heaven: Control Strategies, YouTube video, Penn State Extension Video 

• Controlling TOH in open space: We use research-based best management practices outlined above to control TOH depending on specific site conditions, budget and available time.  

• Tracking TOH in open space: We are collecting biological and spatial data on individual infestations of TOH (and other invasive plants) on CA property.  

• Trapping SLF: Several traps have been set up in open space to test efficacy and feasibility of trapping as a control method on individual trees.  

• Identify TOH: the first step in any pest control effort is to properly identify the target species. TOH has several look-a-like trees that happen to be native. Black walnut and sumac are often confused with TOH. Check out this YouTube video from Purdue Extension: ID That Tree: Invasive Tree of Heaven.
• Report SLF and TOH infestations on CA property: Please email location, photos, or other information about SLF or TOH in CA Open Space to Eric Walker, Conservation Landscape Specialist eric.walker@columbiaassociation.org.
• Report infestations of SLF to Maryland Department of Agriculture: Assist in tracking its spread using this online reporting tool.
• Make a trap: SLF can be trapped at the base of individual trees to reduce dripping honeydew. Check out this DIY trap making guide and video from Penn State Extension.
• Control TOH on your property: Kill the preferred host plant using best management practices linked above to reduce SLF in the immediate vicinity. Make sure you are controlling TOH and not black walnut. Professional herbicide applicators may be required. TOH is extremely hard to get rid of, and is usually 3–5-year effort, as it can have prolific resprouting and a stout underground root network. However, control and local eradication of tree-of-heaven is possible if best management practices are followed.
• Regular checks: Inspect your trees and plants for signs of this pest, particularly at dusk and at night when the insects tend to gather in large groups on trunks and stems.
• Close car windows: Spotted lanternflies and their nymphs can enter vehicles unsuspectedly. When parked, make sure to keep windows closed. If possible, try to park 15 feet away from trees in a quarantine zone.
• Check your vehicle: Before leaving a parking lot or work site, inspect vehicles for eggs or insects. Check doors, sides, bumpers, wheel wells, grills and roofs. If found, destroy any eggs or insects you find.
• Winter prep: When preparing for winter, check your outdoor items for egg masses, including items you may bring indoors.
• Destroy eggs: Look for egg masses in your trees (particularly TOH), bricks, stones and other smooth surfaces. If you find eggs, smash them and scrape them into a plastic zippered bag filled with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol to kill them. Then, zip the bag shut and dispose of it in the trash.
• Know your zones: If you are traveling through a quarantine area, thoroughly check your vehicle and clothes to avoid moving the pest from a quarantine area to your land and other locations.
• Inspect items being moved: If your business involves moving items, check shipping containers, propane tanks, pallets and other items being stored outdoors before they are moved offsite. Inspect incoming goods for egg masses and insects.
• Read more about residential management of SLF: Spotted Lanternfly Checklist for Residents, USDA APHIS. Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide, Penn State Extension.

Source: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture