Should I Worry about Spotted Lanternfly on My Christmas Tree?
What is spotted lanternfly?
Spotted lanternfly is native to parts of Asia. It was first detected in Berks County in 2014 and has spread to 14 counties in southeast Pennsylvania; infestations have also been found in Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia. Spotted lanternfly presents a significant threat to Pennsylvania agriculture, including the grape, tree-fruit, hardwood, and nursery industries, which collectively are worth nearly $18 billion to the state's economy. Spotted lanternfly infestations also greatly reduce the enjoyment of home landscapes.
How do spotted lanternfly survive the winter?
Spotted lanternfly go through four stages from nymph to adult. The adults then lay eggs in fall, covering them with a putty-like substance; these survive the winter. New nymphs will emerge in late spring.
So, could spotted lanternfly eggs be on my Christmas tree?
It is very unlikely that spotted lanternfly would lay eggs on a Christmas tree, even if the tree is from one of the infested counties. First, spotted lanternfly are not known to feed on conifers (trees with needles and cones). Also, you can inspect the trunk and branches of your chosen tree for egg masses. If you see an egg mass, you can easily scrape it off. (Penn State recommends you scrape any spotted lanternfly eggs you would see into rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer and dispose of them.)
To completely allay your fears, know that spotted lanternflies are not a threat to humans, animals, or homes. If spotted lanternfly eggs were to hatch in your house, the very small nymphs would quickly die.
Spotted lanternfly egg mass on a tree trunk. Photo credit: Emelie Swackhamer; Penn State University, Bugwood.org
What steps do Christmas tree growers take to make sure they are not transporting spotted lanternfly?
Christmas tree growers in all states practice integrated pest management to ensure they health of their trees and to keep pests out of your home. Growers in the spotted lanternfly quarantine area work with their state departments of agriculture to train staff and ensure that spotted lanternfly are not hitchhiking on Christmas trees.
Live Christmas trees are beautiful addition to a holiday celebration and are a renewable natural resource. For more information about choosing and caring for a live tree visit Tips for Selection and Care of Cut Christmas Trees.
