Spotted lanternflies are a relatively new threat in the United States. The species originated in Eastern Asia, arriving in Pennsylvania in 2014 and spreading to other states along the eastern seaboard. Now prevalent in the mid-Atlantic states, these insects don't threaten people but can damage trees and plants.
By damaging your plants and trees, these pests can impact your yard's appearance and your property value. Knowing the problems they cause will show why you need spotted lanternfly control in Montgomery County. Read on to learn how to identify these insects, the damage they cause, and how to prevent them.
Invasive Species: How To Identify Spotted Lanternflies
The appearance of these insects depends on where the spotted lanternfly life cycle. Instar nymphs are 1/4 of an inch with black and white spots. As they grow, they begin to show their signature red color with white spots and are 3/4 of an inch long. When they become adults, they can reach an inch in length.
These insects have forewings and hindwings that enable them to fly as adults. The forewings are visible from above, appearing light brown or gray with black spots. When viewed from below, the underwings are red.
The wingspan of the spotted lanternfly is two inches. However, they only open their wings when startled or about to fly. Many prefer to jump between plants, though males and females can take flight if necessary.
The Impact Of Lanternflies: The Potential Damage To Your Property
Spotted lanternflies are sap-feeding insects, affecting over 70 different species of plants. They pierce tree trunks and plant stems to draw sap and other cell contents that are essential for the health and growth of plants. Without these nutrients, the plants suffer significant stress, leading to disease and possibly death.
Most sap-feeding insects suck the sap from trees, but spotted lanternflies are unique. Their long stylets pierce the tree bark or branches, allowing the sticky liquid to flow into their mouths. Spotted lanternfly damage caused during the sap removal process includes the following:
- Reduced photosynthesis
- Weakened plants
- Transmission of plant diseases
These insects feed in large numbers, making them a nuisance in yards. They also produce a large amount of honeydew that promotes mold growth and can attract other insects, including some that sting. While these creatures don't directly threaten the health of residents, they can attract others that do.
Lanternfly Prevention Basics: Effective Techniques
While you can use pesticides to eliminate spotted lanternflies, these products can harm your health and the environment. The better option is to keep these insects from invading and spreading around your property. Some tips to prevent a spotted lanternfly infestation in your yard include the following:
- Check your belongings for spotted lanternfly eggs when traveling.
- Keep trees of heaven out of your yard.
- Cover tree bark with a sticky wrap to trap those climbing upwards.
- Scrape any eggs off tree bark and plant stems.
Even if you know how to identify spotted lanternflies and take precautions to keep them away, these creatures are hard to see on your plants. Regular inspections from professionals can ensure you don't suffer an infestation that jeopardizes them.
Experienced Assistance: Call The Experts For Total Lanternfly Control
Attempting to remove spotted lanternflies in Montgomery County without experience can be unsuccessful and present health concerns. At M.A.D. Exterminators, we train our spotted lanternfly control experts to handle these pests using the safest and most effective methods. We'll inspect your property to find these creatures, removing eggs, nymphs, and adults to protect your plants. Call us to get these pests off of your Montgomery County property.