Crops Affected: A serious pest of grapes. Their effects on other agricultural crops are still being studied. They also feed on Tree of Heaven, black walnut, maples, willow, river birch, black cherry, and many other species.

States Affected: CT, DE, IN, MA, MD, MI, NC, OH, PA, NJ, NY, RI, VI, WV, and spreading

Life Cycle: Spotted lanternfly has one generation per year. Nymphs hatch in May and June. Adults begin to appear in July and mating takes place in August through September. Egg masses are covered in a gray or tan putty-like substance resembling mud, laid on any outdoor surface on which they overwinter.

Damage: Their cluster-feeding behavior can decimate the plants on which they are feeding. They excrete honeydew, which attracts other pests and can encourage secondary fungal diseases on affected plants.

Season to Trap: May to September

How To Use: Hang trap with lure in or near affected or at risk plants, but away from walkways where humans and pets will not disturb it. Set traps out during early Spring. Check traps weekly for presence, potential population density, and to catch and kill nymphs and adults to reduce populations. Replace lures every 30 days through season. If L. delicatula are observed in the trap, report to the local agricultural department.

Additional IPM Solutions: This is a newly invasive species that is still being studied for the most effective IPM options. Beneficial insects, vacuuming, and egg mass scraping may provide some control. Talk with your local agricultural agency for the most up-to-date research.