I’m not a fan of bugs, but some, like the lanternfly, require immediate action. While their colorful wings may seem beautiful, lanternflies are highly destructive pests. Native to China, they first appeared in the U.S. in 2014 and have been spreading since, damaging plants and crops.
These insects feed on sap, weakening plants and causing sooty mold to grow, which chokes the plants. Lanternflies are easy to identify with their striking gray wings and red underwings. Their feeding process damages plants by tapping into their nutrient channels.
If you spot a lanternfly, eliminate it immediately, either by squashing it or destroying egg masses. These eggs appear like gray smears on smooth surfaces and can be removed with alcohol or sanitizer. Managing these pests is crucial to protect our environment and prevent their spread.