Learn how to kill the spotted lanternfly

As the invasive spotted lanternfly moves into Allegheny and other counties, Penn State Extension is offering a live webinar at 3 p.m. on July 15 about methods to get rid of the invasive insect.

The cost is $10 for professionals and the public.

The colorful moth-like invasive insect swarms and attacks trees and plants while oozing sweet sticky droppings that can coat cars, decks and other surfaces. A Penn State study forecasts a $324 million annual economic loss from the insect’s insatiable appetite for the sap of fruit, ornamental and other trees, and woody plants.

Small pockets of lanternflies have been found in Allegheny and Beaver counties. Since the insect is not overrunning the region, Penn State is urging the public to identify, take a photo, kill the insect and report it to their hotline, 1-888-422-3359, or special lanternfly website.

Penn State recommends killing the lanternfly on individual trees by trapping or swatting them instead of using a lot of insecticides.

However, infestations will require additional measures.

Industry professionals who will have to mitigate infestations of spotted lanternfly and its favorite host, Ailanthus altissima, commonly known as tree of heaven, can learn more about mitigation and management of the pest during the Penn State live webinar.

“Ailanthus Control and Spotted Lanternfly Trap Tree Approaches,” will present strategies for controlling tree of heaven and retaining and systemically treating it as trap tree for the spotted lanternfly. Pesticide applicators credits will be offered.

To register, visit https://extension.psu.edu/ailanthus-control or call 877-345-0691.