Spotted Lanternfly in Illinois
MODERATEInsect
Spotted Lanternfly is currently active in Illinois. Watch your susceptible trees closely and act early.
About Spotted Lanternfly
I’m from CT so I literally stopped in my tracks to record this. People of Illinois, THIS IS A VERY INVASIVE INSECT!! Although the primary host is tree of heaven, it also feeds on over 70(!) other species of plants, including natives and crops. KILL ON SIGHT!! It is an absolute nightmare back home, and I’ve been dreading the day I’d see one here.
Symptoms to watch for
Masses of gray egg cases on tree trunks and hard surfaces, weeping sap wounds on trunks, black sooty mold on bark and surrounding surfaces, swarms of adults with distinctive spotted wings
Trees at risk in Illinois
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Treatment options
Egg Mass Scraping
Physical removal and destruction of egg masses from trees, outdoor equipment, and vehicles from October through May. A simple but labor-intensive method anyone can practice.
Circle Trap and Sticky Bands
Banded sticky traps or funnel traps placed around tree trunks to intercept nymphs as they climb. Wildlife-safe designs use mesh covers to prevent bird and small animal entrapment.
Systemic Dinotefuran Application
Bark spray or soil drench of dinotefuran on high-value trees. Provides several weeks of control. Should be applied when nymphs are actively feeding.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Spotted Lanternfly. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Traps climbing nymphs without harming birds (avoid sticky bands).
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Browse all Illinois arborists →Frequently asked questions
Is Spotted Lanternfly in Illinois?
Spotted Lanternfly is currently active in Illinois. Watch your susceptible trees closely and act early. It was first recorded here on July 4, 2026.
What does Spotted Lanternfly look like?
Masses of gray egg cases on tree trunks and hard surfaces, weeping sap wounds on trunks, black sooty mold on bark and surrounding surfaces, swarms of adults with distinctive spotted wings
What trees does Spotted Lanternfly affect in Illinois?
It affects Peach, Apple, Red Maple, Black Walnut, Black Cherry, Weeping Willow, Sugar Maple. Susceptibility varies by species.
How do I treat Spotted Lanternfly?
Options include: Egg Mass Scraping, Circle Trap and Sticky Bands, Systemic Dinotefuran Application. Confirm the diagnosis before treating, and consider a certified arborist for high-value trees.