In this Martha Stewart article, Lou Meyer from Davey's Mid-Atlantic region talks about the spotted lanternfly and the best ways to get rid of them for good. 

Posted: July 28, 2025

A close image of a branch with green leaves in the sunlight.The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect native to Asia that was first detected in North America in 2014 in Berks County, Pennsylvania. While they aren’t dangerous to humans, spotted lanternflies can be devastating to the surrounding landscape, especially outside of their native environment, away from natural predators.1 

According to arborist Lou Meyer, these hitchhiking insects feed on sap from over 70 species of plants, including maples, black walnut, and tree-of-heaven, which is their preferred host. Spotted lanternflies leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew when they feed on plants, which promotes mold growth, weakens trees and vines, and attracts other pests. 

Getting rid of spotted lanternflies in your yard is a small but important part of a larger movement to control this invasive population. When left alone, these insects pose a major threat to agricultural industries, especially vineyards. Ahead, experts explain the most effective ways to eradicate spotted lanternflies from your garden.

To continue reading Lou's advice, click here. 

The Davey Tree Expert Company, headquartered in Kent, Ohio, provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. As one of the top ten largest employee-owned companies in the U.S., Davey's 12,000 employees have been dedicated to creating and delivering sustainable solutions since 1880. Apply today to join the Davey legacy, and learn about how we're growing with our new SEED Campus

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