Most of us have seen the scary pictures of a spotted lanternfly infestation, as well as of the masses of yucky honeydew and sooty mold the infestation causes. So, a mild hysteria went through Glen Ridge last summer when the highly invasive insects first appeared. (Not only appeared but seemed to be everywhere!) Native to Asia, they are a threat to over 100 different plant species, including many landscape trees. Fittingly, their preferred tree host is the invasive tree-of-heaven. But they also have a predilection for red and silver maples, willows, birches and black walnuts. Because they were adults when first noticed in the borough, the advice was to squash and kill as many as possible before they laid their eggs.
Of course, it is no longer summertime, and the adult lanterflies won’t be evident again until July. As a result, many of you have been asking how to deal with the egg masses and then the nymphs to preclude a devastating onslaught of adults. Where to start? What to do?
This issue of GReen Flash offers some strategies. But first, some words of reassurance: While these invaders pose an unquestionable threat, it is important to note that, by and large, they are stressors, rather than killers of trees.
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Is Destroying Egg Masses the Solution? |
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Theoretically, the best way to get rid of a spotted lanternfly infestation is to remove the egg masses before they hatch in May. Each mass comprises 30 to 50 eggs, covered by what looks like tan mud. They can be found on almost any flat surface, including patios and outdoor furniture. Once found, they can either be scraped into a plastic bag, which is then sealed and thrown away, or into a container of hand sanitizer or alcohol. The same methods can, of course, be used for egg masses on tree trunks. But that’s often easier said than done. They are only about an inch and a half in length and are generally situated 10-feet off the ground. |
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Another problem is that lichens are often mistaken for egg masses. And since lichens are estimated to cover 6% of the earth’s surface, this misapprehension can convince the uninitiated of an impending lanternfly Armageddon. (Lichens, by the way, are entirely self-sufficient and in no way harm the tree.)
In other words, identifying and destroying egg masses in trees is probably not the easiest tack for most people to take.
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A So, What About Dealing with Nymphs?
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Lanternfly nymphs emerge in May and immediately begin feeding on the sap in the stems, leaves, and trunk of the host plant. Although they do not fly and are brightly colored, they are very small and excellent jumpers. Therefore, the likelihood of eradicating them through squishing is nil. They are not
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invulnerable, however. In fact, they routinely get blown to the ground and must reclimb the trunk, meaning they can be trapped on the way up.
As a means of entrapment, many have used sticky tape around the tree. Unfortunately, other creatures, including birds, have gotten trapped as well. Consequently, a trap has been specially designed for lanternflies, which is essentially a tunnel of netting leading to a container. These traps can be purchased or made.
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I Missed the Egg Masses and Nymphs, So Now What? |
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Starting in July, when the adult spotted lanternflies emerge, it’s advisable to inspect your trees, especially those favored by the insects, on a regular basis. The best time to do this is dusk. For some reason, they cluster on the tree at that time of day. Of course, whenever you do see them, be prepared to squish them. But, be forewarned, they are quick movers. There are, however, other methods beyond the simple “squish”:
Vacuum - Use a vacuum that has a reservoir to which water and a dollop of dish soap can be added to insure they die.
Neem Oil Spray - Spray them with a solution of 4 teaspoons of neem oil (or any aromatic essential oil) and 2 teaspoons of dish soap to a gallon of water. It does not kill them outright, but lethally hinders their ability to eat.
Vinegar Spray - Spray them or, preemptively, a host tree with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Just be sure the tree can tolerate the acidity.
Insecticide Sprays and Soaps - Use directly on spotted lanternflies or on a favored host tree. But care must be taken. Unnecessarily harsh chemicals can potentially damage trees as much as the lanternflies.
Plant Milkweed - Planting milkweed tends to kill these invaders. Milkweed is poisonous for insects (with the notable exception of monarch butterflies), but lanternflies seem unaware of the danger. Indeed, they seem to gravitate to it at their peril. So it's a win/win: death to lanternflies, life to monarchs!
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The Shade Tree Commission could use your help in the battle against the bug. We would appreciate it if you would inspect your street trees, along with your private trees, for spotted lanternflies. And if there is any hint of infestation on any public tree, let us know at shadetree@glenridgenj.org. Thank you! shadetree@glenridgenj.org
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The Shade Tree Commission wants to be your resource on all things "trees." If you have concerns, questions or issues, do not hesitate to contact us at shadetree@glenridgenj.org |
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Elizabeth Baker, Chair
Joan Lisovicz
Robert Baum
Tina Seaboch
Julie Zichelli
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