How To Stop the Spotted Lanternfly: Simple Fall Steps To Protect Your Trees and Gardens

We’ve heard about a growing threat for years.

But it seems as if, suddenly, spotted lanternflies are more prevalent in our yards and gardens than ever. To find an infestation is very sobering, yet there are things you can do now to beat back the hordes and help stop next spring’s invasion.

Continue to squish, stomp, or use a fly swatter to kill any live adults on plants and trees so they don’t produce eggs that will hatch in the spring. Look for them on trees — black walnuts, maples, willows, river birches and black poplars, among others — as well as plants.

Combine 1/4 cup of mild dish soap with 1 quart of water to knock them off with a strong spray, or vacuum them into a container of soapy water. Another option is using a mesh trap that encircles a tree trunk and funnels the insects into a container at the top. These can be a DIY project or bought commercially.

Freezing temperatures will soon help kill the adults, so right now is a good time to destroy any eggs. Start by hunting for egg masses, which look like smeared gray putty or mud on tree bark, stone, or outdoor furniture and gear. They are typically about 1½ inches long and ¾ inch wide. Scrape them into a double bag filled with rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer or hot soapy water, making sure they are submerged. A plastic card or putty knife works effectively to do this. Seal the bags tightly, then throw them in the trash.

Use sticky traps sparingly and correctly. Sticky bands can catch small nymphs in the spring before they become adults, but must be installed and monitored to avoid trapping birds and beneficial insects. If used, it is imperative to cover the tape with wire mesh so bats and birds are protected. In the fall, this method may not be totally effective, as the largest adult insects just walk or hop over the tape. Consider targeted pesticide options only as a last resort and consult professionals or extension services for safe application.

At this time in Suffolk County, sightings do not need to be reported.

The spotted lanternfly has also had a serious impact on East End agriculture, especially on vineyards. It’s not the grapes. The flies penetrate the vine stems to feed on the sap, weakening the vines over time, which reduces sugar content in the fruit and weakens their ability to store energy in their roots for winter.

Additionally, the Tree of Heaven, which is an invasive species, is a host to the flies. Home gardeners can help our vineyards by cutting down any of these trees on their properties, as vineyard owners have learned to do, and use other methods described to contain the spread.

With vigilance and removal, home gardeners can blunt the spotted lanternfly surge before spring. It’s simple, seasonal work that protects your plants and trees, supports local agriculture and our economy. You can help Suffolk County combat this invasion.