NASSAU
The Spotted Lanternfly Threat
The Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive planthopper from Asia, first detected in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2014, poses a significant risk to a wide range of plant species. Since 2014, it has spread to a number of states, including New York.
This pest targets plants and trees by feeding on their sap, weakening them significantly as well as disrupting their ability to photosynthesize. This can lead to significant structural damage to the trees on your property, and with enough time, can even kill them.
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Lifecycle and Identification of the Spotted Lanternfly
The Spotted Lanternfly completes its life cycle once a year, progressing through several distinct stages:
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Egg stage: Females lay eggs in the fall in rows on surfaces like tree trunks and exterior furniture. Eggs are covered with a protective, mud-like coating that protects them from harsh winter conditions.
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Nymph stage: In spring, these eggs hatch into black nymphs with white spots. Nymphs go through four stages of development, maturing from an entirely black and white color to a red, white, and black during development.
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Adult Stage: In July, they emerge into adults, easily recognizable by their size of about 1 inch long and striking wings. Although their underwings have a bright red and black coloration, they usually feed with their wings folded so that only the gray-colored forewings are visible.
The Damage Caused by the Spotted Lanternfly
The feeding behavior of the Spotted Lanternfly causes heavy damage to plants manifested by:
- Sap oozing, wilting, curling of leaves, and dieback of trees.
- Excretion of honeydew, which encourages the growth of sooty mold that stains plants and surrounding surfaces, reducing plant health and appearance.
Tree Management for Pest Control
Targeting Key Host Trees for Removal
Greenleaf Tree Care specializes in the removal of key host trees, especially the Tree of Heaven-an invasive species favored and exploited by Spotted Lanternflies for its prodigious reproduction. Removing these trees from your property would disrupt the life cycle of the Spotted Lanternfly, cut their numbers significantly, and their resulting impact.
Benefits of Strategic Tree Removal
- Reduced Population of Spotted Lanternflies: We immediately reduce their number by taking away the main habitat that sustains them.
- Long-term Health of the Landscape: Removal of susceptible trees will help the community avoid future infestations and give an even better chance for the health of the remaining plants.
Partner with Greenleaf Tree Care
Let us help manage the Spotted Lanternfly infestation in your landscape with our control services. Call us today if you believe you have spotted any of these signs or if you want to take preventative measures. Our services will provide you with the comprehensive care and management that you need to ensure your property remains free of the Spotted Lanternfly.
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