News
Pest alert issued for Spotted lanternfly
If seen, the Spotted lanternfly should be reported to CFIA immediately
October 15, 2024 By Greenhouse Canada
While no potted lanternfly have been found alive in the country yet, there have been hundreds of adults found near the U.S.-Canadian border. Greenhouse growers are being urged to keep an eye out for the invasive Spotted lanternfly (SPL), a sap-feeding pest that can have a devastating impact on trees and crops.
According to a recent blog post by OMAFA’s Cara McCreary, and shared on ONGreenhouseVegetables.ca, while this pest is not a big concern for crops grown in the greenhouse, it is important to keep an eye out to protect the community.
“Although not considered a huge threat to our greenhouse crops, we can still do our part in our communities,” McCreary writes.
“If you enjoy the benefits of orchards, vineyards, agroforestry or ornamental nurseries or you have neighbours, friends or family that produce these commodities, then you are part of this community.”
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), in an effort to prevent its introduction and spread into Canada, regulated the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula, Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) and it has been a quarantine pest since 2018. According to the agency, SPL feeds on more than 100 species of trees and plants and should be reported to them immediately if suspected.
For more information on what to do if you suspect you’ve seen an SPL in and around your operation, visit ONgreenhousevegetables.ca.
Print this page