Hey neighbors!
Have you seen a bug that looks like it escaped from a fashion show—with polka-dotted wings and red underpants (okay, hindwings)? That might be a Spotted Lanternfly, and trust us, this stylish little pest is bad news for your yard—and all of Virginia.

Let’s break it down, plain and simple:

What Is a Spotted Lanternfly?

It’s a bug from Asia that somehow made it to the U.S. (probably via shipping crates or a really bad vacation). Now it’s spreading fast—especially in parts of Virginia. And it loves to feed on trees, vines, plants… pretty much anything green and growing.

The problem?
They suck the sap from plants and leave behind a sticky mess that grows mold. Yum.

Where Have They Been Spotted?

Right here in our own backyard: Frederick, Loudoun, Fairfax, Prince William, Albemarle, and more. They hitch rides on cars, furniture, firewood—anything we move around. So we might accidentally help them travel!

Why You Should Care

Even if you don’t own a vineyard (cheers if you do 🍷), these pests:

  • Kill trees and plants in your yard
  • Leave gross goop that turns black and moldy
  • Attract wasps and other nasties
  • Threaten Virginia farms and wineries!

Let’s not let this bug ruin wine for everyone, okay?

What You Can Do (Yes, You!)

1. Find and Smash the Eggs

From September to May, they lay grayish blob-like eggs on trees, fences, cars, grills, firewood, whatever. Scrape them into a bag with rubbing alcohol. Not pretty, but very satisfying.

2. See One? Squish It.

From spring through fall, if you see an adult or baby lanternfly—step on it. Or slap it with a flip-flop. (Seriously.)

Pro tip: They jump. So sneak up slowly.

3. Check Your Stuff Before You Travel

Heading out for a trip or moving gear? Check your car, outdoor furniture, firewood, trailers, etc. These bugs love to hitch rides.

4. Get Rid of “Tree of Heaven”

It’s their favorite hangout tree (real name, we swear). If you have one, consider removing it, safely, of course.

5. Report Sightings

See one? Snap a pic and report it to the Virginia agriculture department:
👉 www.vdacs.virginia.gov

Let’s be part of the solution!

These bugs are NOT your friends.
They may be cute, but they’re deadly to plants. And they’re taking over fast.

Let’s be the neighborhood that squashes first, asks questions later.

Thanks for helping keep our community healthy, green, and mold-free!