7 Crucial Tips for Protecting Young Trees from Periodical Cicadas This Spring

If you're in a periodical cicada zone this spring, there are seven important things you should know

Periodical cicadas are fascinating insects that emerge from the ground every 13 to 17 years to mate and lay eggs. They are known for their loud buzzing calls and large numbers, making them a spectacle to observe in nature. However, if you live in an area where periodical cicadas are emerging this spring, there are important steps you should take to protect your young trees from these insects.

1. Understand their life cycle

Periodical cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. When the time is right, they emerge from the ground as adults to mate and lay eggs. Understanding their life cycle can help you prepare for their arrival and protect your trees accordingly.

2. Protect your young trees

Periodical cicadas can cause damage to young trees by laying their eggs in the branches. To protect your trees, consider wrapping them in fine mesh netting or cheesecloth to prevent the cicadas from laying their eggs on them.

3. Monitor cicada activity

Keep an eye on the trees and shrubs in your yard to monitor cicada activity. Look for adult cicadas, empty nymph shells, and tree damage caused by the insects. This will help you assess the impact of the cicadas on your property and take action if necessary.

4. Use physical barriers

If you have young trees that are particularly vulnerable to cicada damage, consider using physical barriers such as tree wraps or mesh netting to protect them. This can help prevent the cicadas from laying their eggs on the trees and causing damage.

5. Avoid using pesticides

While it may be tempting to use pesticides to control cicada populations, it's important to avoid using these chemicals on your trees. Pesticides can harm beneficial insects and wildlife, and may not be effective in controlling cicada populations in the long term.

6. Clean up fallen debris

After the cicadas have finished laying their eggs and the adult insects have died off