The Spotted Lanternfly was first detected in Berks County, PA during September of 2014. Since then, Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery Counties have been added to the list of quarantined areas. If you are within the quarantine list is important to follow the regulations.
The pest is a planthopper native to China, India, and Vietnam. Unfortunately, in 2020, it’s still plaguing Southeastern PA.
What is Being Done to Combat the Infestation
The PA Department of Agriculture starts by targeting the perimeters of areas where the insects have been seen, before working inwards to the heart of the problem.
Removing the insect requires a combination of physical removal and pesticides.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Yard
Mr. Tree is urging residents of the Greater Philadelphia region to be on the lookout for the Tree of Heaven (Ailianthus altissima). This tree is sometimes called the Paradise Tree, but it is not aptly named. It is a rapidly growing tree that is a breeding ground and food source for the Spotted Lanternfly.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is currently calling for the eradication of the Tree of Heaven and Spotted Lanternfly. The pest poses a significant threat to the grape, apple, stone fruit, and timber industries in Pennsylvania, which collectively are worth 18 billion dollars.
How to Spot a Tree of Heaven
The Tree of Heaven has recently been seen in the suburbs of Philadelphia. If you have one on your property, it is crucial to get it removed as quickly as possible. Be on the lookout for trees that have:
- Large, palm-like leaves, up to three feet long.
- Leaves that have a rancid smell when crushed. Many say the smell is similar to burnt or spoiled peanut butter.
- Smooth, gray bark.
- Yellow-green flowers on the end of shoots that bloom during the summer.
- Papery, tan to red seed pods that turn brown and fall off during autumn.
This tree commonly grows alongside highways or in disturbed areas, but it could also take up residence in your yard.
Check out this video from Penn State for an overview of why the Tree of Heaven Matters:
Call Mr. Tree if You Have a Tree of Heaven in Your Yard
Mr. Tree can remove your Tree of Heaven and help ensure that you won’t have an infestation of Spotted Lanternflies on your property. If you see this tree on your yard, contact us online or call 484-999-0040 It’s important to have a professional handle this tree because it is known to grow back quickly if not properly taken care of.
If you see a spotted lanternfly, click here to report it. If you want more information on how to control an infestation or how to safely kill a spotted lanternfly, click here.