The Wonders of Periodical Cicadas and How to Protect Your Landscape

Cicadas buzzing in the summer heat – a sound that evokes memories of childhood days spent in the sun. The phenomenon of annual cicadas may be familiar, but let’s turn our attention to the truly remarkable event of periodical cicadas emerging every 13 or 17 years in large numbers.

While these insects do feed on plant juices and lay eggs in tree branches, causing some concern for gardeners, this unique phenomenon is a sight to behold. Are you ready to witness this captivating natural event? Let’s delve into the world of periodical cicadas and explore how you can protect your garden from potential damage.

What You’ll Discover

Table of Contents

Understanding Periodical Cicadas: Get to know these fascinating insects.
Identifying Periodical Cicadas: Recognize these bugs in your landscape.
Biology and Life Cycle: Learn about the intricate life cycle of periodical cicadas.
Monitoring: Understand how to track and prepare for their emergence.
Organic Control Methods: Explore environmentally friendly approaches to managing these insects.

Understanding Periodical Cicadas

Cicadas, belonging to the Cicadidae family, are known for their piercing-sucking mouthparts and distinctive half-wings. Unlike annual cicadas, periodical cicadas from the Magicicada genus have synchronized life cycles, emerging en masse every 13 or 17 years.

Among the seven Magicicada species, three appear every 17 years in northern regions, while four emerge every 13 years predominantly in southern areas. These large insects, native to eastern North America, create a cacophony of buzzing as they emerge in late spring, making this a memorable natural event.

Identifying Periodical Cicadas

Periodical cicadas are around one and a half inches long, smaller than their annual counterparts. They feature black bodies, red or orange eyes, clear wings, and red-orange veins. This distinctive appearance sets them apart from annual species with green eyes and wing veins.

Biology and Life Cycle

Nymphs of periodical cicadas reside deep in the soil, feeding on tree roots. As the expected emergence year approaches, they tunnel up to the soil surface to molt into adult insects. The synchronized emergence, triggered by soil temperatures reaching 64°F, marks the beginning of their adult life stage.

Adult cicadas form leks in treetops, with males producing loud calls to attract females for mating. After mating, females lay eggs in tree branches, leading to possible damage such as flagging and entry points for diseases like fire blight. The cycle continues as eggs hatch, nymphs fall to the ground, and the process repeats after 13 or 17 years.

Monitoring

Utilizing the brood numbering system and observing signs such as emergence tunnels can help you anticipate and prepare for periodical cicada activity in your area. Monitoring their emergence and behavior can guide proactive measures to protect your garden.

Organic Control Methods

Implementing cultural, physical, and biological controls forms an effective integrated pest management strategy against periodical cicadas. While most mature trees can withstand oviposition damage, young trees require special attention to mitigate potential harm.

Cultural Control

Avoid planting or transplanting trees near an anticipated emergence.
Refrain from pruning young trees before or during the cicada emergence period.
Prune off dead branch tips post-emergence to promote tree health.

Physical Control

Shield young trees with fine-mesh netting to prevent cicadas from reaching them.
Wrap tree trunks with mesh to deter nymphs from climbing up.

Biological Control

Utilize natural predators like birds and fish to manage cicada populations.
Learn about Massospora cicadina, a fungal parasite that affects cicadas’ mating behaviors.

Organic Pesticides

Kaolin clay applications can reduce oviposition on trees, forming a protective layer against cicadas. Reapply regularly for effective control, ensuring minimal impact on beneficial insects in your garden.

North American Enchantment

The spectacle of periodical cicadas emerging in unison captures the essence of nature’s wonder. This unique phenomenon, exclusive to eastern North America, underscores the beauty of biodiversity and ecological interactions. Have you encountered a periodical cicada emergence? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!

Stay informed about garden pests by exploring our guides on managing aphids, stink bugs, and spotted lanternflies. Embrace the magic of nature’s cycles, and appreciate the intricate dance of life in your garden.

This comprehensive guide illuminates the intriguing world of periodical cicadas and equips you with strategies to safeguard your garden. Embrace the enchantment of nature’s rhythms and savor the magic of these captivating insects. Let’s celebrate the wonders of the natural world together!