What We’re Watching Right Now: Spotted Lanternfly & White Pine Weevil in Ohio
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As we move into spring, it’s not just plants waking up, pests are too.
Two we’re keeping a close eye on right now in Ohio are the Spotted Lanternfly and the White Pine Weevil. Neither is a reason to panic, but both are worth understanding, especially if you want to stay ahead of potential damage.
Spotted Lanternfly: More Nuisance Than Crisis (But Still Important)
You may have already heard: Ohio has officially announced a statewide quarantine on Spotted Lanternfly.
First, the good news: They’re not dangerous to people. They don’t bite.
However, they can become a serious nuisance and can weaken trees and plants over time by feeding on sap and producing a sticky substance called honeydew, which can lead to mold and attract other pests.
What to Watch for Right Now (Early Spring)
This is one of the most important times to act.
Look for egg masses on:
Tree of Heaven (their preferred host)
Maples and Mulberries
Hard surfaces like stone, metal, or outdoor furniture
Egg masses look like gray, mud-like smears
If you find them:
Scrape them off and dispose of them in soapy water, or
Treat with horticultural oil
Also, if you have Tree of Heaven on your property, it’s worth identifying and removing it (properly treated) since it’s a primary host for Lanternflies.
What Happens Next
Late Spring: Nymphs begin to emerge
Summer–Fall: Adults become more visible and active
This is when populations, and nuisance levels, can increase quickly.
White Pine Weevil: A Quiet Threat to Evergreens
The White Pine Weevil is less talked about, but we see it regularly in Ohio, especially in spruce and pine trees.
Unlike Lanternflies, this pest targets the leader (top growth) of trees.
What to Watch for This Spring
Wilting or browning at the very top of your evergreen
A “shepherd’s crook” bend in new growth
Damage that shows up just as trees begin to push new growth
If left untreated, this can:
Distort the shape of the tree
Cause long-term structural issues
Reduce the overall health and value of the plant
Images from https://extension.psu.edu/white-pine-weevil
When to Monitor vs. When to Call Us
Not every sighting requires action, but timing matters.
Monitor on your own if:
You find a few Lanternfly egg masses and can remove them
You’re just starting to notice minor insect activity
Your trees and plants still look healthy overall
Call us if:
You’re seeing repeated Lanternfly activity or large numbers
You’re unsure how to identify or remove Tree of Heaven
Your evergreens are showing top dieback or deformity
You want to take a preventative approach before damage spreads
Early intervention is always easier (and more effective) than reacting later in the season.
Want to Learn More?
Ohio State has put together a detailed homeowner guide that walks through timing and treatment options throughout the year.
You can read it here: https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/invasive-pests/slf-bmp
A Quick Reminder
This is part of the natural cycle each season, nothing to panic over. But being aware, taking small steps early, and knowing when to bring in help can make a big difference in keeping your landscape healthy all season long.
If you’re unsure what you’re seeing or want a second set of eyes, we’re always happy to take a look. Give us a call at 614-873-7333.