Spotted Lanternfly: What Homeowners Need to Know
The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect that is not native to the United States. Because it is a relatively new pest, finding and reporting it early is important to help slow its spread and reduce damage to plants and trees.
The spotted lanternfly was first found in Jefferson County, Ohio in 2021. Since then, it has been reported in several other counties, and the Ohio Department of Agriculture has placed a quarantine on affected areas to help prevent its spread.
Despite its name, the spotted lanternfly is not actually a fly. It is a type of insect called a planthopper. Adult spotted lanternflies are about 1 inch long. Their front wings are light gray with black spots, while their hind wings are bright red, black, and white, making them easy to recognize when their wings are open.
Spotted lanternflies feed on many types of trees, shrubs, and vines. They use straw-like mouthparts to puncture plants and suck out sap. This feeding can weaken plants and cause them to ooze sap. The sugary sap and waste produced by the insects attract other pests such as ants, yellow jackets, hornets, and flies.
The insects also leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew. Honeydew can promote the growth of black sooty mold on plants, outdoor furniture, decks, and other surfaces. While the mold usually does not kill plants, it can make landscapes look unsightly and may add stress to affected plants.
If you think you have found a spotted lanternfly, report it right away to the Ohio Department of Agriculture for identification and confirmation. Early detection is one of the best ways to limit the spread of this invasive pest.
Report sightings to the Ohio Department of Agriculture at 614-728-6400
More Information About the Spotted Laternfly
Spotted Laternfly Article at Ohio Department of Agriculture: https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/invasive-pests/invasive-insects/slf
Spotted Laternfly Fact Sheet at OSU Extension: https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/anr-83