Choosing the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly is essential for protecting your plants and controlling infestations effectively.
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive pest wreaking havoc on trees, crops, and gardens across the United States, especially in the Northeast.
Its rapid reproduction and broad dietmake it a serious threat to agriculture, particularly vineyards, orchards, and hardwood trees.
This comprehensive guide highlights the 10 best pesticide for spotted lanternfly, selected based on efficacy, environmental safety, ease of application, and long-term control.
Tips for Choosing the Best Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly
- Systemic vs. Contact: Systemic pesticides are absorbed by the plant and kill pests when they feed, while contact pesticides must be sprayed directly.
- Active Ingredient: Look for proven ingredients like dinotefuran, bifenthrin, and neem oil.
- Environmental Impact: Choose products safe for pollinators and non-target species whenever possible.
- Application Method: Consider if you prefer ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, or tree injections.
- Residual Effect: Longer-lasting products reduce the need for frequent applications.
- Target Stage: Some pesticides are more effective against nymphs, while others target adults.
- Label Compliance: Always follow label instructions for legal and effective use.
10 Best Pesticide For Spotted Lanternfly
1. Dominion 2L Insecticide – Best Systemic Tree Treatment for Spotted Lanternfly
Dominion 2L Insecticide is a powerful choice and often rated the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly when systemic protection is required. It contains the active ingredient imidacloprid, which is absorbed through tree roots and foliage, killing lanternflies when they feed. This method ensures extended control, particularly in trees and woody plants.
As the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly in larger landscape applications, Dominion 2L offers long-lasting effects—often for months. It is ideal for protecting maple, walnut, and other hardwood trees from infestations. Gardeners and arborists appreciate its deep reach into the tree’s vascular system, making it a proactive solution.
Dominion 2L reduces the need for constant spraying, which benefits users looking for convenience and efficiency. When applied correctly, it minimizes harm to non-target insects. This product consistently ranks among the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly in professional treatment programs.
Pros:
- Long-lasting control
- Systemic action
- Effective on adults
- Ideal for trees
- Low reapplication need
- Strong residual
- Professional-grade
Cons:
- Not organic
- Requires careful mixing
- Slow initial results
2. Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer – Best Ready-to-Use Spray for Spotted Lanternfly Nymphs
Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer is widely considered the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly in its early stages, particularly nymphs. This ready-to-use formula contains bifenthrin and zeta-cypermethrin, offering immediate knockdown on contact. It is easy to apply and effective on hard surfaces, fences, and plant stems.
Homeowners favor this product because it is available in an aerosol or trigger spray format, allowing for fast treatment in problem areas. As the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly nymph control, it provides a fast kill rate, disrupting the pest’s lifecycle before adulthood. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Its quick action and convenience make it ideal for those looking for immediate results without mixing. It can be reapplied weekly for maximum impact during peak infestation. This user-friendly solution remains a trusted best pesticide for spotted lanternfly for quick suppression.
Pros:
- Kills on contact
- Easy application
- No mixing needed
- Effective on nymphs
- Affordable
- Dual active ingredients
- Indoor/outdoor use
Cons:
- Not long-lasting
- May harm bees
- Needs frequent use
3. Bonide Systemic Insect Control – Best Garden Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly
Bonide Systemic Insect Control is regarded as a top-tier product and the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly in garden settings. This product is absorbed by ornamental plants and shrubs, making it lethal to lanternflies feeding on treated foliage. It features acephate as its active ingredient.
As a systemic solution, it reaches internal plant tissues and delivers long-term protection. The best pesticide for spotted lanternfly should offer ease of use and strong internal defense, both of which Bonide provides. It’s especially effective in gardens with flowering and fruiting plants where contact pesticides may be less suitable.
Its ease of use and compatibility with sprayers make Bonide popular among home gardeners. Though systemic, it is less toxic to beneficial insects when used properly. It remains a strong candidate for the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly due to its versatility and residual impact.
Pros:
- Systemic delivery
- Easy to mix
- Ideal for ornamentals
- Effective on feeders
- Low foliage burn risk
- Broad application
- Long residual
Cons:
- Not for edible plants
- Chemical odor
- Toxic if misused
4. Bayer BioAdvanced Tree & Shrub Protect – Best Long-Term Control for Spotted Lanternfly
Bayer BioAdvanced Tree & Shrub Protect is an excellent option and a contender for the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly, especially in long-term prevention. It offers 12-month protection with the active ingredient imidacloprid, effective against a variety of sucking insects.
Designed for systemic action, it’s applied as a soil drench that is taken up by tree roots. For large landscape trees and shrubs, this best pesticide for spotted lanternfly provides extended safety without the need for frequent spraying. The slow absorption ensures even distribution throughout the plant.
Gardeners use this product to minimize the need for constant monitoring. With one annual application, it greatly reduces lanternfly populations. It’s a smart investment and clearly ranks among the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly for preventive maintenance.
Pros:
- One-year protection
- Soil applied
- Low effort
- Strong systemic action
- Targets multiple pests
- Ideal for trees
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Not organic
- Takes time to absorb
- Not for immediate results
5. Monterey Garden Insect Spray – Best Organic Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly
Monterey Garden Insect Spray features spinosad, a naturally occurring substance derived from soil bacteria, and is the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly among organic options. It is effective on nymphs and small adults while being safe for organic farms and gardens.
As the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly that is OMRI-listed, it offers a strong balance of safety and effectiveness. Spinosad disrupts the nervous system of lanternflies upon contact or ingestion, reducing the population without harming pollinators when applied correctly. It works best in early stages.
Ideal for those wanting to avoid synthetic chemicals, Monterey’s solution is favored by sustainable gardeners. It is effective for up to a week and can be reapplied as needed. Its organic certification secures its place as a top best pesticide for spotted lanternfly.
Pros:
- OMRI-listed
- Organic-friendly
- Fast nymph control
- Safe on edibles
- Easy mixing
- Low toxicity
- Gentle on pollinators
Cons:
- Not systemic
- Short duration
- Requires repeat use
6. Spectracide Triazicide Insect Killer – Best Broad-Spectrum Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly
Spectracide Triazicide Insect Killer is a powerful and affordable solution that is often listed as the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly for broad-spectrum insect control. It contains gamma-cyhalothrin, which delivers quick knockdown and residual effects for up to eight weeks. Its fast action is ideal for home landscapes and small gardens.
As a contact pesticide, this product works best when sprayed directly on lanternflies or surfaces they frequently visit. It’s labeled for over 260 types of insects, making it one of the most versatile options on the market. If you’re seeking the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly and other pests simultaneously, Spectracide is a strong choice.
This pesticide is also praised for its value and availability at most hardware stores. Though not systemic, its repeated use during peak season yields excellent results. It’s especially effective for people facing diverse pest pressures beyond just lanternflies, reinforcing its position as a best pesticide for spotted lanternfly.
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum use
- Affordable
- Easy to apply
- Fast knockdown
- Widely available
- Multi-insect label
- Effective for 8 weeks
Cons:
- Not systemic
- Frequent reapplication
- Can harm beneficials
7. Neem Bliss Pure Neem Oil – Best Natural Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly Eggs
Neem Bliss Pure Neem Oil is frequently regarded as the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly when targeting eggs and soft-bodied nymphs. It’s made from 100% cold-pressed neem oil, which contains azadirachtin—a natural compound that interferes with insect hormones. This makes it highly effective against egg clusters and early-stage lanternflies.
As the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly in natural gardens, Neem Bliss is non-toxic to pets and beneficial insects when used properly. It also serves as a fungicide and miticide, offering extra benefits for plant health. Neem works by smothering eggs and disrupting molting in juveniles.
Its use is especially popular among organic farmers and eco-conscious gardeners. While slower-acting than chemical pesticides, its repeated use provides consistent suppression without environmental damage. It is a safe, sustainable addition to your lanternfly control plan and holds a top spot among the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly options.
Pros:
- Organic solution
- Egg-stage control
- Multi-purpose (fungicide)
- Pet safe
- Cold-pressed formula
- Minimal residues
- Non-toxic to humans
Cons:
- Slow results
- Frequent application
- Strong odor
8. Tempo SC Ultra – Best Professional-Grade Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly
Tempo SC Ultra is favored by exterminators and often recommended as the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly for professionals. It contains beta-cyfluthrin and delivers rapid knockdown with lasting residual activity. It’s highly effective on outdoor surfaces, plants, and even siding and decks.
The formulation mixes easily with water and can be applied using most pump sprayers. For serious infestations, this best pesticide for spotted lanternfly delivers superior coverage and long-term suppression. It remains potent for weeks, even in fluctuating weather conditions.
Professionals rely on Tempo SC Ultra for its wide pest label and reliability. While it should be applied with care, it’s an excellent investment for large properties or recurring outbreaks. Its strength and coverage make it one of the most effective best pesticide for spotted lanternfly treatments available.
Pros:
- Fast acting
- Long residual
- Wide pest control
- Low odor
- Easy mixing
- Covers large areas
- Rain-resistant
Cons:
- Professional strength
- PPE recommended
- Can harm bees
9. Sevin Insect Killer Concentrate – Best Versatile Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly Infestations
Sevin Insect Killer Concentrate is an old standby that continues to earn its place as a best pesticide for spotted lanternfly for backyard infestations. It contains zeta-cypermethrin, known for quick action and good residual power. It kills lanternflies on contact and deters future arrivals.
This concentrate can be applied to trees, vines, vegetables, and ornamental plants without harming most crops. Its versatility makes it a go-to solution for gardeners seeking the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly and other outdoor pests. When used weekly during high-risk periods, it keeps infestations in check.
Its cost-effectiveness and ease of dilution make it a favorite for repeat use. The Sevin brand is trusted by many for home gardening needs, and this concentrate doesn’t disappoint. For multipurpose pest defense, it remains among the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly choices.
Pros:
- Broad usage
- Fast kill rate
- Concentrate form
- Good residual
- Crop-safe
- Affordable
- Easy dilution
Cons:
- Needs mixing
- Shorter duration
- Not organic
10. BioAdvanced 3-in-1 Insect, Disease & Mite Control – Best Multi-Purpose Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly
BioAdvanced 3-in-1 delivers triple protection, making it the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly when you need to control more than just insects. It combines insecticide, fungicide, and miticide in one bottle, simplifying your garden maintenance routine. It’s especially helpful for lanternfly-infested grapevines, roses, and flowering trees.
It contains imidacloprid and tebuconazole, allowing systemic control of sucking insects while also treating powdery mildew and spider mites. This multi-functionality cements its reputation as a strong best pesticide for spotted lanternfly for ornamental and edible plants alike. It also improves overall plant vigor.
Its hose-end sprayer attachment makes application fast and mess-free. Gardeners with limited time and multiple issues favor this efficient product. It rounds out the list of the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly due to its convenience and multi-tasking ability.
Pros:
- 3-in-1 formula
- Systemic action
- Fungicide included
- Easy hose-end spray
- Targets multiple pests
- Great for ornamentals
- Improves plant health
Cons:
- Not OMRI listed
- Strong odor
- Avoid during bloom
Best Pesticide for Spotted Lanternfly FAQs
- What is the best time to apply pesticide for spotted lanternfly? The best time is during the early morning or late evening when lanternflies are most active. Spring and summer are ideal for targeting nymphs and adults.
- Can I use natural pesticides for spotted lanternfly control? Yes, products like neem oil or insecticidal soaps are effective and safer for pollinators and the environment.
- Are systemic pesticides better than contact sprays for lanternflies? Systemic pesticides are effective for long-term control, especially on trees and vines, while contact sprays offer immediate knockdown.
- Is it safe to spray pesticides near edible crops or fruit trees? Many pesticides are labeled for use on edible crops, but always read the label for specific application restrictions and pre-harvest intervals.
- How often should I reapply pesticide for spotted lanternfly? Reapplication intervals vary by product. Some require weekly application, while others offer protection for several weeks.
- Will these pesticides harm bees and pollinators? Some chemical pesticides can harm beneficial insects. Apply during times when pollinators are inactive, or choose pollinator-safe options.
- Can I mix different pesticides together for better results? Always consult product labels before tank mixing. Some pesticides can be mixed, while others may cause harmful interactions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best pesticide for spotted lanternfly is a vital step in protecting your plants, trees, and agricultural assets. With a range of options available, including systemic and contact formulations, homeowners and farmers alike can tailor their approach based on the size of their infestation and environmental concerns.
After thorough evaluation, BioAdvanced 12-Month Tree & Shrub Protect and Feed stands out as the best overall pesticide for its long-term systemic control, ease of use, and added fertilization benefits.
For those seeking a powerful alternative, the runner-up is Tempo SC Ultra, known for its professional-grade strength, residual effect, and rapid knockdown ability.
Whether you prefer natural remedies or chemical solutions, using the right product at the right time can drastically reduce spotted lanternfly populations.
Always follow label instructions and integrate multiple control methods for best results. This list offers reliable, field-tested solutions for managing lanternflies effectively. Take proactive steps today to protect your landscape and crops from this destructive pest.