The spotted lanternfly population has exploded in southern Pennsylvania recently, causing severe damage to plants and crops. This pest could potentially make its way to Maryland, too.
Lycorma Delicatula, more commonly known as the spotted lanternfly, is predicted to invade Maryland as early as in April of this year. Lanternflies are native to regions in India, Vietnam, and China, and have made their way to Pennsylvania via a cargo delivery from Asia. Since arriving in Berks County, Pennsylvania, the pest has done harm to various crops like hop plants, fruit trees, and grapes as well as gardens. Outdoor patio furniture and decks are now covered in a messy goo that has become bothersome to residents. And, unfortunately, as the population continues to explode in Southern Pennsylvania, Marylanders will have to deal with the speckled, four-winged nuisance, too. Perhaps, the biggest threat a potential lanternfly invasion poses is that they feast on local plant life, sucking the sap out of stems, leaves, shrubs and trees, which can stunt the growth of a plant or even kill it. Crops may produce lower yields as a result. Luckily, the spotted lanternfly doesn't pose any health risks, like the Zika Virus or Malaria. The fly is more of a nasty pest that folks could do without.
How to Protect Your Garden
- Use an ice scraper to destroy egg masses -- that nasty goo left behind by the insects -- and place them in a plastic bag that contains rubbing alcohol. This will kill the eggs.
- Wrap strips of brown paper around the tree trunks and apply a coat of insect-killing adhesive. While this won't eliminate all of them, it will help reduce the population.
- Sprays and organic insecticides are also very helpful. But, please note, that since the lanternflies aren't native to the region/country, this specific insect won't appear on the label.
If you do spot the pest in your yard or garden, make sure you act quickly as the egg masses attracts other pests that could cause even more damage to your garden. Do you have any other tips on how to protect your garden? Have you seen these insects before? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
