Are you familiar with Spotted lanternfly? These non-native, invasive insects are becoming more prevalent throughout the state, and if they aren’t yet on your radar, chances are that they will be soon.
First identified in Ohio in 2020, Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) has now confirmed infestations of SLF in 18 counties throughout the state. Though Fairfield County hasn’t yet made the list, infestations have been confirmed in neighboring Franklin and Muskingum counties, so SLF is making its approach. The good news is that they cannot harm people directly, and they are not outright plant-killers. SLF can be managed when detected early – that’s where you come in.
Spotted lanternfly feed like giant aphids, using their piercing mouth parts to suck the sap from the stems and trunks of woody plants. While SLF’s primary host is a common weed tree called tree-of-heaven, they will feed on over 70 different plant species including grape (both wild and cultivated), black walnut, maples, fruit trees, and hops. This feeding behavior has been shown to be a plant stressor and can cause stunted growth, localized damage, and reduced yields. In the case of grape and tree-of-heaven, heavy SLF feeding has resulted in plant mortality.To add insult to injury, as it feeds SLF excretes a sugary substance called honeydew. This sticky liquid collects on whatever happens to be underneath a feeding population (understory plants, picnic tables, vehicles, porches, etc.) and can attract the attention of ants, wasps, and bees. Furthermore, honeydew can result in the growth of a dark substance called sooty mold that can inhibit photosynthesis in understory plants. Sooty mold can also collect on your belongings and can be difficult to remove.
Understanding its life cycle is critical to identifying SLF. Hatching around May, SLF undergoes a series of instars, or molting events. They start life as a first instar nymph that is only 1/8-inch long. They have black bodies with white spots on their back. As they grow into second and third instar nymphs, they retain their black bodies and white spots and increase in size with every molt. Their fourth instar form is about ½-inch long with a bright red body, black stripes and white spots. Similarly to adult SLF, nymphs are very fast and can jump far, however are unable to fly.
Beginning in July, SLF enter their adult phase. This is when they are most recognizable and what you should be looking for right now. Adults are winged and about 1-inch in length. The forewings are light brown with black spots, and the hind wings are mainly red with black spots (Fig. 3). The red color is especially noticeable when the insect flies, but adults are surprisingly well-camouflaged when they are feeding. The females begin laying their eggs in September, utilizing just about any flat surface (tree trunks, rocks, buildings, vehicles, etc.). Adults continue feeding and reproducing until they are killed off by the first hard frost. SLF then overwinters as eggs, hatching in the spring and starting the cycle over again.
With Spotted lanternfly currently in its adult phase, now is the time to be vigilant. If you suspect a spotted lanternfly outside a quarantined county, please take a picture and report the finding to the Ohio Department of Agriculture Plant Pest Control using the Ohio Plant Pest Reporter found on the ODA website. This will allow ODA to monitor the spread of this pest. Once reported, small populations can be controlled by squashing and stomping. Tips for managing larger populations can be found on the ODA website. Removing their preferred hosts, such as the invasive tree-of-heaven, can also help to reduce numbers on your property. For more information, contact ODA a 614-728-6400 or call or visit your local OSU Extension office.
Farmers market
Be sure to stop by the Lancaster Farmers Market Aug. 30, to purchase a sample of the 175th Fairfield County Fair Celebration wine from Rockside Winery. Only 250 bottles will be sold and a portion of the sales will be donated back to the Fairfield County Agricultural Society for maintenance of the historic buildings.
Scarewcrow creations
Grab your flannel and let’s get crafty with a touch of cornstalk charm —it’s time to build your very own scarecrow from head to toe. You’re invited to our first scarecrow making workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 4, in the Round Cattle Barn at the county fairgrounds. Whether you’re into classic country charm or scarecrow-chic, you can create a one-of-a-kind fall decoration perfect for your porch, garden, or to display at the Fairfield County Fair. Space is limited and tickets must be purchased by Sept. 1.
Because sharp tools and following intricate directions will be involved, the workshop is open to those age 9 or older. Finished scarecrows can go home with you the same night, or stay behind to proudly represent at the fairgrounds during the Fairfield County Fair. (Pickup will be arranged after the fair.) For details contact Visit Fairfield County at 1-800-626-1296.
This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Help the Department of Ag track the Spotted lanternfly