Spotted Lanternfly Detected In Middle Tennessee

  • Thursday, September 28, 2023
Spotted lanternfly, Davidson County
Spotted lanternfly, Davidson County
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture has confirmed the detection of spotted lanternfly (SLF) in Davidson County. Tennessee is the 16th state to detect SLF since it was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014.
 
“Our Plant Certification Section inspectors responded to a tip from a vigilant citizen about a sighting of spotted lanternfly,” Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. said. “This non-native insect is harmful to a range of crops and natural resources in our state. Wood products businesses and fruit growers could be especially vulnerable, and we want your help in watching out for this pest and eliminating any you find.”
 
SLF are invasive insects that can spread long distances when people and vehicles move infested material or items containing egg masses. 
 
Adults emerge in late summer and early fall and are about one inch long and one-half inch wide with visually striking wings.
Its favored host is Tree of Heaven and it shows preference for grape vines and fruit trees. It may also appear in other trees, such as black walnut, maple and yellow-poplar. Infested trees may exhibit wilting, defoliation, dieback, yield loss and, in severe cases, death. SLF adults and nymphs typically gather in large numbers on host plants, feeding on nutrients and water. SLF lay eggs on trunks of host plants and other flat surfaces.
 
If you see SLF or an egg mass, take photos, then complete the form on Protect Tennessee Forests website at www.tn.gov/content/tn/protecttnforests/resources/report-a-pest.html. 

Next, stomp the insect and destroy egg masses by smashing or dousing with rubbing alcohol. Check vehicles, boats or campers to make sure they aren’t carrying any insects or eggs.
 
The State Entomologist and Plant Certification Section staff are studying SLF samples, carrying out surveillance and conducting outreach.
 
The Plant Certification Section oversees nursery, greenhouse and plant dealer certification programs. Plant inspectors work with industries to ensure the continued movement of healthy, pest-free plant material in interstate and international trade, and monitor the phytosanitary condition of plant material coming into the state.
State Plant Pathologist Katy Kilbourne
State Plant Pathologist Katy Kilbourne
Outdoors
300 Paddlers Experience Chattanooga Area, The Tennessee RiverLine As Part Of 3-State Float Trip
  • 6/19/2025

On Thursday, more than 300 visiting paddlers will continue their week-long river trip with a float through downtown Chattanooga. Paddlers will begin their Thursday float at the Coolidge Park ... more

Man, 35, Dies At Dale Hollow Reservoir
  • 6/18/2025

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) Officers responded to a call on Dale Hollow Reservoir around 12:50 a.m. CDT. A man overboard, around Sewell Bend, near First Island was reported. ... more

Master Gardeners Of Hamilton County Host Free Classes
  • 6/17/2025

The Master Gardeners of Hamilton County (MGHC), in association with the University of Tennessee Extension, continue their 3rd Saturday Free Gardening Classes with “Bees in the Garden” presented ... more