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What is Transpiration in Trees? How Trees Use Transpiration

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Water is critical for the growth and health of all trees. Trees have developed ways to absorb, store, and use water to grow and maintain health. The process of receiving and using water is called transpiration. Transpiration in trees is a fascinating, self-sustaining process.

What is Transpiration?

Close-up photo of leaf with water on it | Transpiration in Trees | Stein Tree Service

Transpiration is the way water moves through plants. The tree roots absorb water from the soil, and then the water is pulled up the tree, eventually reaching the leaves. As the water reaches the leaves, the sun heats the water, converting from a liquid into vapor, which is called evaporation. The water vapor passes through tiny pores called “stomata” on the leaves, evaporating into the air, where the rest of the water cycle repeats. Transpiration is a critical process for a plant or tree’s health.

The two main purposes of transpiration are cooling a plant and providing water to leaves for photosynthesis. Only a small amount of water, roughly 5 percent, is used by the plant for growth. The rest of the water is used to help the plant or tree regulate temperature. But the leaves need a good amount of water for photosynthesis. The stomata need to be open for the leaves to take in carbon dioxide. However, the tree needs to prevent too much water from evaporating through the open stomata. Transpiration is, in essence, a balancing act between the right amount of water for growth, photosynthesis, and cooling off.

How Do Trees Use Transpiration?

Transpiration in trees works in the same general way as other plants. Tree roots absorb water through the soil, while the tree moves the water up, against gravity, to the leaves, cooling off and transpiring most of the water. A large oak tree can transpire up to 40,000 gallons of water per year. That large quantity of transpired water is partly due to the tree’s size, the number of leaves, and overall greater potential for water loss.

While transpiration is a self-sustaining process, trees can face problems that disrupt their sustainability. For instance, trees may struggle to provide enough nutrients to the leaves through water if the soil is dry and lacking moisture. If a tree faces both a lack of water and scorching temperatures, the stomata of the leaves will close to conserve water, preventing growth. Dropping leaves is another, more drastic way of trees conserving water. Providing enough water to trees is important, especially during the hot summer months.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Your Tree Care Needs

Stein provides the services needed for tree health. Stein Tree has been in business for over 35 years, providing quality residential tree service to many communities in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Our staff of professional, certified arborists has experience, skills, and a passion for keeping trees healthy and strong. For more information on transpiration in trees or our services, contact Stein Tree Service.

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Stein Answers Summer Tree Care Questions

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Now that summer is here, many of our clients may reach out to us with summer tree care questions. People tend to spend more time in their yards during summer, and this year probably more than usual. Stein Tree Service is here to help with your tree care needs and questions. Below are some common summer tree care questions and answers to help keep your trees healthy this summer.

What Is Deep Root Watering Of A Tree?

Deep root watering is the process of watering the deep roots of a tree instead of just watering the surface. Most people water the ground surface near their trees, but this water quickly evaporates before reaching the roots. Shallow watering can lead to shallow, unhealthy root systems, which makes a tree more prone to falling over during storms and winds. Deep root watering alleviates this issue by carrying water roughly one foot into the roots, promoting healthier and deeper growth.

Why Are My Leaves Turning Yellow in Summer?

Several problems may cause yellowing of leaves. One reason is that the tree or soil is lacking the proper nutrients, such as iron, to produce chlorophyll. Yellow leaves could also be a reaction to the sudden heat and dryness of summer, especially after a rainy and productive spring. Other, more serious reasons, are pests or diseases. Aphids are pests that can cause a yellowing of tree leaves. If your tree leaves are turning yellow, the best way to figure out the cause is by contacting a professional, certified arborist to inspect your trees.

How Does Trimming And Pruning Help Protect Trees During Summer Storms?

Up-close shot of a hedge trimmer and shrub | Summer Tree Care Questions | Stein Tree Service

Trimming and pruning protect trees during summer storms by removing any dead or weak branches from trees. The removal of these branches makes the tree less prone to falling over during storms. Trimming branches to thin them out improves air flow. Reducing the tree’s resistance to wind reduces the chance that the entire tree could fall during a storm, thus making the area and any property around the tree safer during storms.

Why Is My Ash Canopy Looking Thin?

Like the yellowing of leaves, ash canopy thinning can be the result of multiple causes. One likely reason, which is a significant concern for our area, is emerald ash borer infestation. Ash tree canopy thinning, along with unusual woodpecker activity and yellowing of leaves, is typically a sign of ash borer infestation. If your ash tree’s canopy and upper leaves are thinning, the best course of action is to call a tree care specialist who can properly inspect and treat emerald ash borer.

How Does Mulch Help My Trees?

Up-close shot of mulch | Summer Tree Care Questions | Stein Tree Service

Mulch helps your trees by generally promoting and cultivating tree health. Mulch helps reduce water evaporation and insulates roots from extreme temperatures, retaining moisture and maintaining a consistent temperature. By restricting the amount of light that weed seeds receive, mulch also helps reduce the amount of weeds around trees. Fewer weeds means less competition for nutrients, and the area looks nicer too! In addition, as mulch decomposes, tree roots are provided with nutrients and organic matter through the soil.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Summer Tree Care

If you have other summer tree care questions, call Stein Tree Service for the answers. Our experienced, certified arborists have provided residential tree service to many communities in Pennsylvania and Delaware for decades. We have state-of-the-art equipment, and our staff is ready for immediate response. Contact Stein Tree Service for a free consultation.

Tree care by certified and insured arborist - Stein Tree Service

Tree Pruning is Essential to Good Tree Maintenance and Safety

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care, Tree Care Video, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

Tree pruning is an important maintenance task for homeowners, for safety as well as aesthetics. Spring 2020 has brought some strong storms in Pennsylvania and Delaware, causing many trees to fall, and some have fallen on homes, cars or other structures. We have received many requests for removal of trees that have fallen during these storms.

How Regular Pruning Can Help Prevent Accidents

Many of these storm-related incidents may have been preventable with regular inspection and pruning. An arborist can determine if risk factors are present and take action to protect your trees, property and physical safety.

Damaged Branches

Branches may become damaged or die without notice by a casual observer, especially if they are high in the tree. These branches are more fragile and subject to falling in strong winds or heavy snows in winter. An arborist performing tree pruning can safely remove those branches and avoid the risk of damage from their falls.

Tree Sickness

Sometimes a tree injury can allow fungus or other disease to find their way into the tree. If left untreated for too long, they undermine the integrity of the tree and make affected branches or the entire tree vulnerable to falling.

Insect Infestation

Insects can infest the tree and get a stronghold before owners are even aware. These insects may damage and weaken the tree to the point that falling is a bigger possibility. For example, the emerald ash borer, a small metallic green beetle, attacks ash trees, leaving larvae that burrow under the bark, eating the substance in the tree that transports nutrients.

The first sign a homeowner notices may be tree canopy dieback. If untreated, small trees can die within 2 years, and large ones within 3-4 years. These weakened trees are more vulnerable to falling in strong storms and should be evaluated by a professional arborist. The insect can easily spread to other local ash trees, so residents should report the issue if an infestation occurs.

Tree Branch Density

Thick tree branches resist air flow, and regular trimming and pruning can help keep the air moving more freely. A certified arborist will perform tree pruning in such a way that the aesthetics are maintained and the tree remains healthy and strong. Making groups of trees less resistant to air flow also makes them less likely to be knocked over in strong wind situations.

Tree Damage Liability

While no one wants tree damage of any kind to occur, financial liability is a big factor for residents to consider when they have trees on their properties. When trees fall into a neighbor’s yard, onto their fences or structures, or worse, onto a person, the homeowner could be held financially responsible if they are found negligent. Having regular tree inspections, tree pruning, and other tree care, and keeping records of the services, can offer some protection in a situation where a tree has caused damage in a fall.

Call Stein Tree Service for Pennsylvania and Delaware Tree Care

Stein has been providing exceptional tree care service for residents of Pennsylvania and Delaware for over 35 years. We are passionate about trees and committed to maintaining their health and vitality. We are considered an essential business because tree care helps ensure safety in communities. Contact us today for tree pruning, tree removal, and treatment for insect infestation.

Stein Discusses New Invasive Species in the U.S., the Murder Hornet

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Pests & Diseases, Stein Tree Service Blog.

Invasive species in the U.S. have caused immense damage to our environment, industries, and communities. Emerald ash borer, for instance, has destroyed millions of ash trees. A species of hornet, nicknamed “murder hornet,” is a new invasive species that has recently been found in the United States. This hornet could cause significant problems for our honeybee populations, which would disrupt local ecosystems. Stein Tree provides you with the information you need to know about “the murder hornet.”

What Is The Murder Hornet?

 

Photo of Asian giant hornet | invasive species in US | Stein Tree Service

The Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), or “murder hornet,” is a species of hornet from Asia and is the largest species of hornet in the world. Although native to Asia, the murder hornet recently appeared on the west coast, making it a potential new invasive species in the U.S. These hornets are approximately 1.8 inches in body length and have orange heads and bodies, with black bands around the body. Their behavior is similar to other hornets: these hornets are highly protective of their hives, but mostly ignore humans or other animals, unless said humans or animals are aggressive. Although the murder hornets look and behave similarly to other hornets, this species is more dangerous.

The dangers of murder hornets are twofold: the dangers inherent with any hornet, wasp, or bee, and the dangers presented by any invasive species. Murder hornets’ stingers are longer than those of honeybees and can pierce some thick clothing. Murder hornets feed on honeybees and could decimate honeybee populations if the hornets are great enough. Honeybees are responsible for plant growth, food sources, and many more products people buy every day. The biggest risk of murder hornets is the potential damage that honeybee populations, and therefore our environment, could suffer.

The Threat of Invasive Species in the U.S.

Thankfully, murder hornets have yet to migrate or expand to the east coast of North America and we have other invasive species that are already impacting our area. As previously mentioned, emerald ash borer is prevalent all across the U.S. This pest has caused immense and expensive damage in many states since its discovery in 2002. The spotted lanternfly is another threat to our trees, targeting fruit trees and other plants. Because of the risks these species possess to our environment, we encourage you to take action, be watchful for evidence of emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly, and contact a certified arborist to inspect and treat the affected trees.

Contact Stein Tree for Invasive Pest Services

If your trees have any issues with invasive species, including emerald ash borer or spotted lanternfly, call Stein Tree for solutions. Our certified arborists are licensed to treat invasive species in Delaware and Pennsylvania and have years of experience in tree pest control as well as other tree and plant health services. For more information on invasive species in the U.S. or our other services, contact Stein Tree Service today.

galleries are one of the signs of emerald-ash-borer-infestation - stein tree service

Emerald Ash Borer FAQs

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Stein Tree Service Blog.

The emerald ash borer (EAB) continues to be a significant problem for Pennsylvania and Delaware, and residents should be more aware to help protect their trees. To educate our customers and community about the dangers the emerald ash borer presents, Stein Tree has gathered some Emerald Ash Borer FAQs.

How Does EAB Kill Trees?

Emerald ash borer up-close view | Emerald Ash Borer FAQs | Stein Tree Service

An adult beetle lays eggs within the bark of an ash tree, which hatches about two weeks later. Once hatched, the larvae begin feeding on the bark, eating the inner tissue layers of the tree. The tissues that EAB larvae feed on are responsible for transporting nutrients and water. How long a tree takes to die after becoming infected depends on the size of the tree and the EAB population. Generally, infested small trees may die within 1-2 years, while large trees can be killed in 3-4 years.

Do All Ash Trees Get Emerald Ash Borer?

Almost all ash trees are at risk if the emerald ash borer continues to spread. American mountain-ash, or Sorbus americana, is one species of ash tree that has yet to be affected by emerald ash borer, as the species is not considered a true ash tree. EAB prefers ash trees that are stressed by disease or drought, but the pest will attack healthy trees as well.

Do Emerald Ash Borers Eat Other Trees?

Emerald ash borers almost exclusively feed on ash trees. In North America, the beetle has also been found to attack white fringetree, which is a non-ash species. However, the only widespread reports of trees damaged by EAB are about ash trees.

Cost of Treating Trees for Emerald Ash Borer

The cost of treating trees for emerald ash borer varies depending on how early the treatment begins and the severity of the damage. Price also depends on the size and the number of trees that need treatment.

How Can I Detect EAB?

The signs of an infestation can take a significant amount of time to be visible but can be spotted with diligence. Below are some of the main signs used to determine an EAB infestation:

  • Unexplained die-off on the upper canopy
  • Small tufted shoots on the trunk, called epicormic branching
  • Distinctive D-shaped holes left by emerging larvae
  • Vertical bark splits
  • Excessive woodpecker damage, from woodpeckers eating larvae

How Can We Get Rid of EAB?

The best method of getting rid of EAB is to be diligent of any signs or symptoms in your area and call a professional arborist to take care of the problem. First, professional arborists will be able to identify infestations accurately. Professional arborists who are certified to treat for EAB also have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to properly control and get rid of emerald ash borer while maintaining tree health.

Call Stein for Answers to Emerald Ash Borer FAQs, Inspection and Treatment

If you are concerned about emerald ash borer damaging your trees, contact Stein Tree Service. Our arborists, certified in Delaware and Pennsylvania for the treatment of EAB, know the best and safest preventive methods to help keep your trees safe. If you would like a free consultation or have any other emerald ash borer FAQs, contact Stein Tree Service.

Emerald ash borer S shaped galleries

Stein Recognizes Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week, May 20-26, 2020

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Stein Tree Service Blog.

Emerald ash borer up-close | Emerald ash borer awareness | Stein Tree Service

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has been a significant problem in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and all across North America for years, and the pest will soon be emerging from its winter slumber. Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week, which will take place from May 20 to 26, 2020, is part of a more significant effort to inform residents and homeowners of the threat, how to spot signs of an EAB infestation, and what action to take.

The emerald ash borer is a metallic-green beetle that feeds on ash trees and has been an invasive species in the U.S. since 2002. Ash tree populations across many states have been destroyed. We recognize that many people are focused on other things due to COVID-19, but residents should continue to be diligent about tree care and health to avoid losing valuable trees.

How to Help During Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week

Here are some of the actions you can take to help prevent the spread of emerald ash borer and protect your trees during Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week.

Look For Signs of EAB Infestation

Due to the damage that these beetles can cause, we encourage homeowners to look for signs of possible EAB infestation. In the early stages, you may see a thinning of leaves at the top of a tree. At later stages, the tree bark begins splitting, and sprouts (epicormic shoots) may start coming from the tree base. Substantial woodpecker activity on the tree is also a sign, as woodpeckers feed on EAB larvae. Other symptoms of emerald ash borer activity include:

  • Yellowing of leaves
  • D-shaped exit holes
  • S-shaped galleries under the bark

Avoid Moving Firewood

An important reason why EAB is such a massive problem is that the beetles can easily transport from one area to another. One way that emerald ash borer moves is on firewood. As a result, many states regulate the movement of firewood to prevent the spread of EAB. The solution here is to buy local firewood, buy heat-treated certified firewood, or gather firewood on site when permitted.

Help Spread Awareness

Taking action during Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week, or anytime, helps preserve ash trees. When more homeowners and residents are aware of the threat and the signs of EAB, and what to do if activity is discovered, the chances for successfully treating an EAB infestation are better. If you spot any signs of emerald ash borer presence, report your findings and any questions about treatment of emerald ash borer to a certified arborist.

Call Stein for Certified Professional Emerald Ash Borer Inspection and Treatment

After identifying the signs and symptoms of emerald ash borer damage, the next step is to contact a professional, certified arborist. Stein Tree Service knows how to protect ash trees from emerald ash borer damage. Our EAB treatment certified arborists are certified to treat for EAB in Delaware and Pennsylvania, and are considered an essential business. We use the safest preventive methods and treatments to save your trees when possible. For more information on Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week or a free consultation, contact Stein Tree Service.

Tree care specialist using spider lift to trim large tree - Stein Tree Service

Tree Pruning is Important But When Is Tree Pruning Essential?

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

Tree pruning is important for tree care, but some homeowners may wonder why pruning could be considered an essential service. Tree pruning is essential because this process makes your trees safer, in addition to making them healthier and more beautiful.

Why Tree Pruning Is Important

Pruning shears up-close view | tree pruning | Stein Tree Service

Tree pruning involves removing certain parts of a tree, such as branches or roots. Pruning can be performed on any plant and may be done for several reasons:

Aesthetics, space, reducing competition, and safety.

  • Aesthetics – Homeowners may wish to nurture a tree so that a certain shape or size is maintained. In addition, removing dying or damaged branches enhances the visual beauty of a tree, even allowing the tree to fit a given space better. The improved beauty and appearance of the tree also help increase property values and create a positive impression for potential customers.
  • Space – Different types of trees require different size areas to grow in, but sometimes a tree can safely be maintained within a space if the pruning begins early and is done regularly.
  • Reducing Competition – When trees are growing closely together, they may have to fight to get enough sunlight. Trimming to remove some of the branches allows more sunlight to the remaining branches and allows better airflow.
  • Safety – Safety is one of the essential reasons for trimming and pruning. This pruning is done to protect nearby people, structures or power lines.

When Is Tree Pruning Essential?

Tree Pruning is Essential - Stein Tree Service Infographic

Tree pruning is important, but sometimes pruning is also essential. Trimming and pruning in fall also reduce the risk of damage during winter snows.

Tree Disease or Death

If your trees have dead, decaying branches, those trees should be pruned. These branches pose a safety hazard to nearby buildings or people. Of course the important thing is to protect people and property, but also, if branch from your tree injures a person or personal property, you could be financially liable. If you are wondering if your trees need pruning, contact a certified arborist to perform an inspection.

Pest Infestation

Pests like emerald ash borer can infest your trees. When this happens, treatment varies based on the pest. Sometimes, trimming only the affected branches can take care of the problem and your tree can become healthy again. Failure to get proper treatment can cause valuable trees to die, and pests can spread to other trees or property.

Insufficient Air Flow

If branches are too close together, air flow is impeded. When strong storms come, the wind may be unable to pass through and may cause the tree to break and fall. Pruning to thin out the branches can reduce the chance of trees or branches falling onto people or structures.

Branches Overhang Power Lines

If a branch falls onto a power line, you could lose power. You could also get a fire or electrical damage or shock. None of these options is desirable, so if you see branches getting too close to power lines, call a certified arborist to trim them safely back.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Residential and Commercial Tree Pruning

Home and business owners in Pennsylvania and Delaware often call Stein for their annual tree pruning and shrub trimming, as well as a variety of other tree and plant care services. Our certified, experienced arborists strive to provide reliable, exemplary tree care for our clients. To learn more about why tree pruning is important or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

tree inspection can identify dangerous trees - tree cavity - stein tree service

What Causes Tree Stress and How to Prevent Stressing Trees

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Many societies and cultures throughout human history have associated trees with resilience, sturdiness, and longevity. While trees are undoubtedly resilient, they are still vulnerable to harmful factors that can cause stress or damage. Tree stress is can result from certain adverse factors, and if left untreated, that stress can eventually lead to the tree’s death. Fortunately, many organizations, such as state departments of natural resources or conservation, are studying trees to help determine and alleviate current threats.

Current Threats to Trees and Factors of Tree Stress

Tree stress can result from several different factors. Biological elements such as insects, pests, and diseases can cause stress, as well as mechanical or human-caused factors such as improper planting, chemical use or construction.

Insects and Diseases

Fungus on tree trunk | Tree stress | Stein Tree Service

One of the more severe threats to trees is insects and diseases. Specific insects and diseases can have genuinely devastating impacts on the health and sustainability of trees in both forest landscapes and urban areas. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) monitors Pennsylvania’s forests for insects and diseases, protecting trees when necessary.

Current insect and disease threats to Pennsylvania trees include the following:

  • Emerald ash borer
  • Spotted lanternfly
  • Gypsy moth
  • Hemlock woolly adelgid
  • Beech bark disease
  • Oak wilt

Emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, gypsy moth, and hemlock woolly adelgid are all invasive species, and have caused severe damage to Pennsylvania trees. Diseases such as oak wilt and beech bark disease each threaten specific species of trees.

Natural and Environmental Factors

Tree damaged by storm, aftermath | Tree stress | Stein Tree Service

In addition to insects and diseases, other natural occurrences and environmental properties can cause tree stress. One of the significant issues with environmentally-caused stress is that affected trees, even young and healthy ones, are more susceptible to diseases and invasive insects.

  • External factors that can stress trees include:
  • Drought
  • Excessive moisture
  • Pollution
  • Abnormal or extreme temperatures
  • Wind damage

New trees can replace those that are stressed by these environmental factors. However, invasive species such as the emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly alter the natural reforestation cycle.

Improper Planting and Maintenance

Human-made causes of stress can be attributed to improper planting and poor or neglectful maintenance. Improper planting can range from picking the wrong tree for the local soil conditions, to planting a tree too close to a road, to having too little mulch. Poor maintenance includes inadequate watering or pruning techniques.

Another factor is injuries caused by mechanical means, such as construction or lawn-related damage. A lawnmower or trimmer cutting the bark or compacting the soil can cause tree stress. Heavy construction equipment can also stress trees, with most of the damage occurring in the root system due to soil compaction and disruption.

How to Prevent Tree Stress

One of the ways to effectively prevent stress is to be watchful for pests and other signs of stress. Look for bark dieback, wilting leaves, tree cavities, and other symptoms that a tree is injured or damaged to some extent. Insects can be hard to see, so you have to look at the overall tree health. can blend into trees. Check your trees, outdoor equipment and furniture, gardens, and similar areas for invasive species such as emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly.

If you are unsure whether a tree is stressed or damaged, contact a certified arborist. Arborists and tree care specialists have the knowledge and experience to identify threats to a tree’s health and know what measure to take for proper care. The most effective method to treat for tree stress is to stop whatever is causing harm as soon as possible.

Call Stein for Quality and Reliable Tree Care Services

Stein Tree Service has been in business since 1983 and has a long history of serving the Pennsylvania area. Our experienced staff and state-of-the-art equipment are ready for immediate response for emergency tree care services. If you want to learn more about tree stress, or how your landscape could benefit from tree care services, contact us today for a free consultation.

West Chester Certified Arborist

The History of Arbor Day And How You Can Celebrate

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog.

At a time when more of us are appreciating the beauty of the trees and our landscape, we would like to examine the history of Arbor Day. Celebrated this year on April 24, 2020, Arbor Day is a national holiday where people all across the country celebrate the role of trees in our world. As a tree care service company, we are passionate about tree care and promote the observance of this holiday.

Continue reading

adult spotted lanternfly on a tree

The Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Has Been Expanded in PA: What You Need to Know

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog.

In Pennsylvania, the spotted lanternfly quarantine has been expanded to include 12 new counties in advance of the hatching that occurs in spring. So far, these counties have a few municipalities with a known infestation, rather than complete contamination. Still, the spotted lanternfly has done enough damage to Pennsylvania’s environment and various industries to warrant such caution. In addition, the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) and the TCIA (Tree Care Industry Association) have designated that taking care of invasive pests including the spotted lanternfly are considered essential services under the shelter in place restrictions for Pennsylvania and Delaware. Below is everything you need to know about spotted lanternflies and the expanded quarantine.

Quarantine Guidelines

The quarantine has been established to limit the spread of spotted lanternfly, which is a “hitchhiker” and tends to catch a ride to other areas on vehicles or things being transported. Trucks carrying loads from outside the quarantine area into the area, or through the area if they are stopping inside, must acquire permits. Businesses, such as landscapers or professional tree care companies, must be certified to work in quarantine areas. Fines may be assessed for noncompliance with the quarantine.

The additional counties bring the number of counties under quarantine in Pennsylvania to 26. The newest counties added are:

  • Allegheny
  • Beaver
  • Blair
  • Columbia
  • Cumberland
  • Huntingdon
  • Juniata
  • Luzerne
  • Mifflin
  • Northumberland
  • Perry
  • York

Spotted Lanternfly Facts

 

Spotted lanternfly with wings open | spotted lanternfly quarantine | Stein Tree Service

The first recorded spotting of the spotted lanternfly in the United States was in 2014, and the pest is found mostly in states along the east coast, particularly Pennsylvania.

Adult lanternflies have black heads, and are about one inch long. Their most distinctive feature is gray wings with small black spots. When flying, the bug shows smaller bright red wings, which are hidden during rest. Younger lanternflies look more like larvae and have black spots, slowly gaining a red color with age.

Spotted lanternflies can quickly expand their presence, flying or hopping onto vehicles or transported materials, including:

  • Firewood
  • Construction or landscaping materials
  • Outdoor equipment or furniture
  • Crates or boxes

The Tree of Heaven is the preferred host for the spotted lanternfly, but other trees such as fruit and pine trees may also be affected.

How You Can Help Protect Your Trees

Though the spotted lanternfly quarantine has been expanded, the spotted lanternfly could show up anywhere. One way that you can help Pennsylvania manage this invasive pest is by being diligent and looking out for any signs of spotted lanternflies or activity. Spotted lanternfly blend in when resting on trees, so residents must be observant.

We also encourage you to look out for egg masses. Egg masses will either look similar to smears of mud or vertical rows of seed-like eggs. These will be found on trees, and because late-April and May are typically when these eggs hatch, inspecting your trees right now is especially vital.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Tree Services in Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Areas

The spotted lanternfly is a growing problem. The spotted lanternfly quarantine has been expanded for this reason. Stein Tree Service is committed to the health of our trees and helping homeowners maintain a healthy landscape. If you see the pest or evidence of activity, contact us for a consultation.