We are working closely with the PA Department of Agriculture (PDA) to ensure all plants leaving our nursery are free of any life stage of the spotted lanternfly. We have implemented pest management and hold a Spotted Lanternfly Permit as required by the PDA.
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species native to China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. In 2014, it was found in Pennsylvania and has since spread to 14 counties that are now quarantined.
If you see a spotted lanternfly, it’s important to immediately report it online or via phone by calling 1-888-4BADFLY. Next, be sure to kill it. Squash or smash. Either one will do the trick.
Why?
The spotted lanternfly can cause serious damage to trees. This damage may include oozing sap, wilting, leaf curling, and tree dieback. When spotted lanternflies feed, they excrete a sugary substance, called honeydew. Honeydew encourages the growth of black sooty mold. This mold is harmless to people, but it causes serious damage to plants.
The spotted lanternfly does not have predators in the U.S. Without natural predators, its population can significantly increase with damaging effects to plant material and agricultural crops, such as grapes, hops, and hardwoods.