Be on the Lookout for Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses this Spring!

Harrisburg – As the spring shipping season for plants gains speed, it’s important that all sectors of the green industry – nurseries, garden centers and landscape contractors - be on the lookout for spotted lanternfly egg masses on plants, containers, shipping racks and pallets, as well as their vehicles, trailers and equipment.

The egg masses can be found om just about any hard surface. The gray/brown masses are distinctive and be found on any object that spent time outdoors last summer and fall.

Pennsylvania nurseries within the SLF quarantine area are very familiar with the protocols for shipping plants. But as the insect spreads, those outside of the quarantine area should also be checking for egg masses, not only on their plants, but also on vehicles and equipment.

By the same token, garden centers should be cognizant of the possibility of egg masses on any item that has spent time outside, such as bales of peat moss, stone, pavers, overwintered plants, etc. Check your inventory that has been around since last year and also check new inventory coming into your garden center.

Landscape contractors are especially vulnerable to inadvertently spreading SLF eggs masses on vehicles, equipment and tools as they move from job to job. Also, like garden centers, landscape contractors should check plants they have overwintered or are buying in, pavers, stone or any other material that could host egg masses.

Penn State Extension has an excellent resources for spotting and dealing with SLF egg masses and managing SLF. Check out these resources and contact your local extension educator for more information.