Spotted Lanternfly

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has confirmed Westchester County is considered infested with Spotted lanternfly!This invasive plant hopper, attacks a wide variety of crops including grapes, hops, apples and forest products. While it does prefer Ailanthus altissima, commonly known as tree of heaven, it is not needed for the insect to complete its life cycle.

The insect is easy to identify with distinct markings. It will change hosts as it goes through its developmental stages. Nymphs feed on a wide range of plant species (willow, maple, poplar, sycamore as well as fruit trees like plum, cherry, and peach) while adults prefer to feed and lay eggs on tree of heaven (A. altissima).

To report SLF, visit Spotted Lanternfly Public Report (arcgis.com)

To manage SLF, visit:Spotted Lanternfly Management | CALS (cornell.edu)

If using pesticides, please be sure to only use insecticides labeled for Spotted Lanternflies.Which can be found here: Spotted Lanternfly Management | CALS (cornell.edu)

Since spotted lanternflies rarely cause damage to landscape trees, treatment is not necessary for the health of the tree; but if they become a nuisance, insecticides can be used. Some people may choose to hire a certified pesticide applicator who is equipped to make a tree injection, bark sprays, or soil drenches.

Do not use home remedies such as kitchen vinegar, just because the internet promotes it doesn’t mean it works or is safe!

Home-Remedies-to-Control-Pests-CCE-PSEP-Fact-Sheet.pdf (bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com)

A virtual program on Spotted Lanternfly was held on September 12, 2023.  To learn more about spotted lanternfly and its management, see video of program: Spotted Lanternfly

Last updated June 4, 2024