10/09/2026
A serious new pest of grapevines has been detected in Canada. Sightings have been confirmed in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Manitoba, and New Brunswick.
The insect can damage and kill grapevines and can also affect many other crops, trees, and horticultural plants.
Native to Southeast Asia, the spotted lanternfly was first found in the United States in 2014 and has spread through several states. It feeds on the sap of more than 100 plant species and produces a sticky substance called honeydew that can lead to mould growth and attract other insects.
The pest is most active in September and October, when adults mate and lay eggs. Growers and the public are encouraged to learn how to identify the insect and its egg masses.
Spot it? Snap it, catch it, and report it to the Food Inspection Agency CFIA immediately: https://inspection.canada.ca/en/plant-health/invasive-pests-and-plants/insects/spotted-lanternfly
To help prevent its spread, the recommends checking vehicles, outdoor equipment, and other materials for insects or egg masses before moving them from affected areas.
If you are travelling back from infested areas of Canada and the U.S., don't accidentally transport these pests. Check your car, camper, trailer or RV before making the return trip. Be sure to check any camping gear or equipment you have.
Human-assisted spread can include:
⚠️movement on cargo and containers
⚠️camping gear and outdoor equipment
⚠️patio furniture
⚠️trucks and cars
⚠️movement of plants and plant materials (including nursery plants, logs and firewood)
The Invasive Species Centre offers free factsheets and posters in English, French and Spanish, along with a free Spotted Lanternfly Training course under the Invasive Species Training Program: https://www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/invasive-insect-spotted-lanternfly-detected-in-ontario-and-canada-for-the-first-time/
**egrower
