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Ohio Battles Invasive Lanternflies: Squash Them Now!

9/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Spotted lanternflies damage plants by sucking sap and producing honeydew that attracts other insects.
Egg masses appear yearly from late September to December.
In Ohio, residents are urged to squash lanternflies and remove the invasive "tree of heaven," their primary host.
Experts expect a decline as temperatures change; natural predators like birds may help, and controls include vacuuming and soapy-water on egg masses.

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Story summary

Spotted lanternflies damage plants by sucking sap and producing honeydew that attracts other insects.
Egg masses appear yearly from late September to December.
In Ohio, residents are urged to squash lanternflies and remove the invasive "tree of heaven," their primary host.
Experts expect a decline as temperatures change; natural predators like birds may help, and controls include vacuuming and soapy-water on egg masses.