Lantern Flies and edible greens - Ask Extension
I have kale and arugula growing in a raised bed that is covered with a tight fitting, 4' high insect mesh. Yesterday I found several dozen lantern fl...
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Lantern Flies and edible greens #929980
Asked April 29, 2026, 7:20 AM EDT
I have kale and arugula growing in a raised bed that is covered with a tight fitting, 4' high insect mesh. Yesterday I found several dozen lantern flies trapped inside, mostly clinging to the mesh. The greens still appear untouched and I'm assuming the lantern flies hatched from the soil, where peppers and eggplants grew last year. Can you recommend a safe way to kill the flies before they devour the plants or reproduce for next year?
Franklin County Ohio
Expert Response
Probably the best way to deal with this comparatively small infestation is to manually remove the lantern flies and dispose of them by stomping or putting them in soapy water. There are sprays available for this pest, but these will also kill beneficial insects such as pollinators and those that prey on pests. See this publication:
Spotted Lanternfly in Home Gardens | University of Maryland Extension
Be careful not to bring additional lantern flies onto your property on garden furniture or equipment. In the fall you can look for egg masses and destroy them. See this publication for how to do this and additional information on non-chemical controls:
Spotted Lanternfly Management | Cornell IPM
Remember when using any chemical control, it is necessary to read and follow all label directions.
Spotted Lanternfly in Home Gardens | University of Maryland Extension
Be careful not to bring additional lantern flies onto your property on garden furniture or equipment. In the fall you can look for egg masses and destroy them. See this publication for how to do this and additional information on non-chemical controls:
Spotted Lanternfly Management | Cornell IPM
Remember when using any chemical control, it is necessary to read and follow all label directions.
