The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has lifted the quarantine on the state of Virginia for Spotted Lanternfly, as the insect is now widespread. Reporting sightings is no longer necessary.

For homeowners, this insect is mostly a nuisance. However, Spotted Lanternflies can cause damage to vineyards and orchards. High enough numbers may warrant spraying but will also risk killing beneficial insects and pollinators in the area sprayed. There is now evidence of native wildlife, such as bats, birds, and other insects using Spotted Lanternflies as a food source, which will hopefully help to level off their numbers over the next few years.

The preferred host tree for Spotted Lanternflies is the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), which is also an invasive species. Follow the link below to a video on identifying and eliminating these trees on your property, which can help deter spotted lanternflies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2OkDcHhfak

Follow this link to a homeowner’s publication with more information: https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/ENTO/ento-586/ento-586.html

If you have further questions, feel free to contact our Horticulture Help Desk at albemarlevcehelpdesk@gmail.com or 434-872-4583