Do lanternflies kill tomato plants?

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect species that has been causing significant damage to crops in North America, particularly on the East Coast. In recent years, the lanternfly infestation has spread to more states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Ohio. One of the most common questions is whether lanternflies kill tomato plants. In this article, we will explore the effects of lanternflies on tomato plants and provide some tips on how to protect your plants from the invasive species.

How do lanternflies affect tomato plants?

Lanternflies are known to feed on sap from trees, such as grapevines, walnuts, and maples. However, they have also been observed feeding on other plants, including tomato plants. Adult lanternflies and their nymphs can cause damage to tomato plants by sucking out the sap from the stems, leaves, and fruits. This results in yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. If left untreated, the damage can be severe enough to kill the tomato plants.

How to protect your tomato plants from lanternflies

Here are some tips on how to protect your tomato plants from lanternflies:

Use sticky bands: Lanternflies crawl up the stems of tomato plants, so placing sticky bands around the stems can help trap the insects.

Manual removal: Another effective method is to manually remove the lanternflies from the tomato plants. Use gloves and a bucket of soapy water to drop the insects in and dispose of them away from your garden.

Insecticides: Insecticides can be used as a last resort to kill lanternflies, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying directly on the tomato plants.

Cover your plants: Covering your tomato plants with netting or row cover can prevent lanternflies from accessing the plants.

Conclusion

Lanternflies can cause severe damage to tomato plants and other crops. Prevention and early intervention are key to protecting your plants from these invasive insects. The tips mentioned above can help deter and control the spread of the lanternfly infestation in your garden. Remember to stay vigilant and monitor your plants regularly for signs of damage, and seek professional help if necessary.