If You See It, Squash It: Managing Spotted Lanternflies

Spotted Lanternflies have arrived in mass in Maryland. The invasive insects, first observed in Pennsylvania in 2014, are mainly a nuisance to residential gardens and landscapes but could pose a threat to Maryland’s agricultural crops such as grapes and fruit trees. They do not bite or sting humans or other animals such as pets but damage plants by feeding on their sap. The plant-hopping insect, which is native to eastern Asia, has been increasingly sighted in the River Hill area.

Adult Spotted Lanternflies are identified by their red hind wings with black spots. Adults appear beginning in July and remain until the first hard frost of the fall, usually sometime in November. The Maryland Department of Agriculture recommends destroying the bugs. The lanternfly can be crushed with gloved hands, stomped with shoed feet, smashed with a fly swatter or placed in a container of soapy water or rubbing alcohol. The application of insecticides, other chemicals, or home remedies such as white vinegar or dish soap, are not recommended because they can harm other plants and animals. According to the University of Maryland Extension, removal and disposable are the best course of action to help control the spotted laternfly population.