California agricultural inspectors have made a crucial rescue by intercepting eggs of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that poses a serious threat to grapevines and potentially endangers the state’s wine industry.

This detailed report takes a closer look at the discovery and its potential impact on California vineyards.

The alarming discovery

The discovery took place at the Truckee Border Protection Station, where officials found 11 viable egg masses of the spotted lanternfly on a metal art installation.

The artwork, shipped from New York, was destined for Sonoma County, a crown jewel in California’s wine-producing regions.

The spotted lanternfly, native to Asia, has already caused significant damage in 18 states, and its arrival in California could spell disaster for the local wine industry.

The insect feeds on the sap of grapevines and leaves a sticky honeydew residue, which can attract other pests and lead to fungal diseases.

The stress on the plants can lead to reduced yields, fewer bottles of wine for consumers and in severe cases, complete death of the vines.

The economic impact of such a plague could be devastating, as California produces an average of 81% of total U.S. wine production each year.

The potential catastrophe for the wine industry

The California Association of Winegrape Growers has expressed serious concerns about the spotted lanternfly’s potential to impact California’s entire wine grape industry.

The association warned that if additional egg masses from other shipments have entered the state undetected, they could produce adult spotted lanternflies in the coming weeks, with peak populations expected in late summer or early fall.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture has developed an action plan to eradicate the pests if they enter the state.

The public has been asked to report any sightings of the insect or its eggs to the CDFA Pest Hotline.

The metal art installation, which was initially returned to Nevada after the discovery of the egg masses, was thoroughly cleaned before being allowed to continue to its destination in Sonoma County.

Also read: Spotted lanternfly may not damage hardwood trees previously thought to be resistant in North America

How can vineyards protect themselves from this threat?

Vineyards can take several proactive steps to protect themselves from the spotted lanternfly threat. Here are some key strategies based on expert recommendations:

Early detection and reporting:

It is critical for vineyard owners to educate themselves about the appearance of the spotted lanternfly at its various life stages, including eggs, nymphs and adults. Early detection and reporting to local agricultural authorities can prevent significant damage.

Canopy and power management:

Practicing good canopy management and nutrient management can help. Healthy vines are more likely to experience minimal damage and recover from pests than weaker, less healthy vines.

Tree-of-Heaven Control:

The tree of heaven is a favorite host for the spotted lanternfly. Removing or managing these trees near vineyards can lower the risk of spotted lanternfly and help reduce the insect’s population. It is recommended to remove 90% of all trees of heaven on your property and use the remaining 10% as trap trees treated with a systemic insecticide from April to September.

Pesticide Management:

Avoid overuse of pyrethroids in vineyards as they can increase mealybug populations, which can cause leaf roll virus. Save highly effective insecticides with good residue (such as Brigade, Actara, Scorpion, Carbaryl and Mustang Maxx) for use against adult insects in late summer until harvest.

Vehicle and equipment hygiene:

Keeping vehicle doors and windows closed can prevent the insect from being transported as a hitchhiker. It is also important to check and clean equipment and vehicles moving between locations to prevent the spread of the infestation.

By implementing these measures, vineyards can significantly reduce the risk of spotted lanternfly infestation and protect their crops from this invasive species.

The interception of the spotted lanternfly eggs is a stark reminder of the continued vigilance needed to protect California’s vital wine industry from invasive species.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture, along with the vine growers association, continues to monitor the situation closely and urges public cooperation in reporting possible sightings of this devastating pest.

Related article: Heavy adult feeding by spotted lanternflies on young maple trees stunts tree growth by as much as 50%