08/31/2026
What to know about the Spotted Lantern Fly from City of Framingham's Tree Warden - Rebecca Nau
Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has been documented throughout the City of Framingham. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns residents have about spotted lanternfly.
Is spotted lanternfly harmful to people or pets?
No. Spotted lanternfly does not bite, sting, or otherwise harm people or pets.
What is the most effective way to control spotted lanternfly infestations on my property?
Beginning in September, spotted lanternflies will lay egg masses on trees and other outdoor surfaces, while a hard winter freeze will kill adult spotted lanternflies, Massachusetts winters are typically not cold enough to kill the egg masses, allowing them to survive and hatch the following Spring. Egg masses can be destroyed by scraping them off surfaces and firmly crushing the eggs as you scrape. You can scrape egg masses directly into a container filled with rubbing alcohol or soapy water and leave them submerged for at least 24 hrs before disposing of them.
Can I cut down or remove tree of heaven?
Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an invasive species and a preferred host plant for spotted lanternfly, while removing these trees may reduce honeydew and sooty mold around your property, but it’s unlikely to permanently eliminate spotted lanternfly. Tree of heaven is difficult to remove because the root system must be treated to prevent regrowth.
Can I use pesticides to eliminate spotted lanternfly?
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) currently recommends chemical treatments only in areas with heavy spotted lanternfly infestations and when other management methods are unlikely to be effective. Residents should carefully consider whether pesticide treatment is necessary.
What is the City of Framingham doing about spotted lanternfly?
The city recognizes that spotted lanternfly is a growing challenge and that managing an established invasive species is an uphill battle. Our team of certified arborists is focused on education, public outreach, and helping residents understand how to identify and manage spotted lanternfly on their own property. Staff also attend quarterly update meetings with MDAR to stay informed about the latest research, management recommendations, and statewide developments. At this time, the City of Framingham is not using pesticides to manage spotted lanternfly. We will continue to evaluate management approaches as new information becomes available.
If you have any questions you can email Rebecca at [email protected]
More information: https://www.mass.gov/spotted-lanternfly
