03/15/2024
https://www.facebook.com/100070853269605/posts/441243171580788/?mibextid=I4yVpOFgxaOEidVT
With the start of another growing season in Massachusetts getting under way, we want to remind our growers, retailers and brokers of nursery stock, as well as all our landscapers to inspect any plant material being imported from states where spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula or “SLF”) has been found to ensure it does not harbor SLF egg masses. This reminder is especially important as there are now 17 states, including Massachusetts, with established infestations of this pest.
Spotted lanternfly is a sap-feeding insect that has caused significant impacts to vineyards, orchards, and other agricultural commodities in states where it has become established. SLF not only harms grapevines, maples, hops, blueberries, and over 100 other host plants, but has the potential to negatively impact any outdoor business through their swarming behavior that occurs in the late summer.
Our staff in the Crop and Pest Services Division continues to conduct surveys and treatments at known infestations throughout the state but we're asking all green industry representatives to be vigilant and on the lookout for this pest.
Because SLF egg masses are flat and grayish beige in color, they are difficult to detect, especially on tree bark. For examples, please see the photo below. If you find an egg mass or any other life stage of SLF, please report it to MDAR immediately at https://massnrc.org/pests/slf.
