August offers an early opportunity to help reduce next spring’s Spotted Lanternfly hatch in South Carolina. Adult populations are active now and, based on current predictions, are beginning to lay egg masses earlier than in northern states. These eggs can overwinter and hatch next spring, and they’re notoriously tricky to spot and remove once laid. Reducing the number of adults now can make a meaningful difference.
In landscapes, watch for lanternflies feeding on Tree of Heaven, grapevines, maples, and ornamental plants such as roses, lilacs, willows, birch, and blueberries. Both red-bodied nymphs and adults are present this time of year, so scout broadly: trunks, outdoor furniture, vehicles, fence posts—anywhere they might gather or lay eggs.
If you find them, remove them. Where feasible, eliminate host plants like Tree of Heaven, and consider targeted insecticide use if populations are high and egg-laying has begun. We’ve included a life stage calendar and size guide to help with identification in the field.
Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Zee Ahmed’s team or the Department of Plant Industry at Clemson if you need assistance with identifying stages or weighing treatment options. The goal is to reduce overwintering eggs before they become next year’s problem. Refer to the included flyer for details on lifecycle timing and the activity calendar.
