OHIO, USA — The Ohio Department of Agriculture is warning residents to report a new insect that could do damage to crops and growers.
A population of the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF) was found on the east side of Cleveland in late August.
Officials say the SLF is a great concern to the grape and wine industry. The insect is fond of grapevines, fruit trees, hops, blueberry, oak, pine, poplar, and walnut. Both adults and nymphs feed on stems and leaves, causing sap bleeding and reduced photosynthesis, which can eventually kill the plant.
"The population can get really high," ODA plant health chief Dan Kenny said, "so you have thousands of these spotted lanternflies that are basically sucking the juice out of the plants themselves."
Now through November is the best time to spot the SLF because it is in its most recognizable stages as a colorful winged adult plant hopper.
The public is the first line of defense against the SLF. If you believe you have seen an SLF in your area, you can easily report a suspected infestation by going to ODA’s Spotted Lanternfly Information Page and filling out a suspected infestation report. You may also call the Plant Pest Control Division at 614-728-6400.