The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is the newest agricultural invasive species in the United States. Originally from Asia, this insect feeds on plant sap from a broad range of hosts. Dr. Heather Leach, Extension Associate at the Department of Entomology at Penn State University is focused on researching this insect and educating the public on how to manage the pest. Although it appears that SLF has been in the United States for some years, growers are now seeing adverse effects and report extreme vine decline and death.

A major part of Heather’s research is around how to manage SLF. While a large number of insecticides are effective, the challenge is that population’s levels are highest during harvest. This restricts the insecticide use to products with low residuals and requires more applications. Alternative management trials with some promise include exclusion netting, cannon sprayers, building a border with insecticide treated netting, and determining if there are predators already in the United States.  

References:

• Heather Leach
• Lanternfly Study Yields Insight into Insecticide, Biopesticide Effectiveness
• Penn State Extension Spotted Lanternfly
• SIP Certified
• Spotted Lanternfly Frequently Asked Questions
• StopSLF.org
• Sustainable Ag Expo
• Using Traps for Spotted Lanternfly Management

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