Do Cicadas Devastate Gardens?

Cicadas, those buzzing, winged creatures that emerge from the ground after years of subterranean slumber, are a fascinating part of nature's cycle. But when they descend upon our gardens, many a green-thumbed enthusiast wonders, "Do cicadas destroy gardens?" The short answer is no, they don't. However, their presence can indeed cause some changes and raise concerns about your garden's health.

Cicadas, particularly the periodical ones like the 17-year cicada, emerge en masse to mate and reproduce. This sudden influx can seem overwhelming, but it's essential to understand that they play a crucial role in their ecosystem. They serve as a food source for various animals and their emergence can even indicate a healthy environment.

Cicadas' Impact on Plants

One of the primary concerns gardeners have is whether cicadas feed on plants. The adult cicadas, which are the ones you see buzzing around, primarily feed on sap from tree and plant leaves. They use their piercing mouthparts, called proboscis, to puncture the plant tissue and suck out the sap. This can leave small, yellowish or brownish spots on leaves, but it's usually not enough to cause significant harm to healthy plants.

However, in large numbers, cicadas can cause visible damage. They can defoliate small trees and shrubs, leaving them bare and vulnerable. But it's important to note that this is typically temporary. Once the cicadas have moved on, the plants usually recover, given they're otherwise healthy.

Trees Most Affected by Cicadas

Certain types of trees are more susceptible to cicada damage than others. These include young or newly planted trees, as well as those that are already stressed or diseased. Some of the tree species most commonly affected include maples, birches, and fruit trees.

On the other hand, cicadas tend to leave larger, healthier trees relatively unscathed. This is because these trees have more resources to spare and can better withstand the cicadas' feeding.

Cicadas and Soil Health

While cicadas primarily feed on leaves, their emergence also affects the soil. The nymphs, which are the cicadas' immature stage, live underground and feed on the sap of tree roots. This can potentially weaken the tree's root system, making it more susceptible to disease and environmental stressors.

However, this impact is usually minimal and only noticeable in severe cicada infestations. Moreover, the nymphs also aerate the soil as they tunnel through it, which can benefit soil health in the long run.

Cicadas and Garden Pests

Another concern is whether cicadas attract other pests to the garden. While cicadas themselves are not pests, their presence can indeed draw other insects. Predatory insects like birds, wasps, and spiders are attracted to the abundance of food, which can help control other garden pests.

However, the large number of cicadas can also attract pests like stink bugs and squash bugs, which can feed on your plants. But again, this is usually a temporary issue that resolves once the cicadas have moved on.

Managing Cicadas in the Garden

If you're concerned about cicadas damaging your garden, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, ensure your plants are healthy and well-cared for. Healthy plants are better able to withstand cicada feeding and recover quickly.

You can also protect young or vulnerable plants by covering them with fine netting or row covers when cicadas are active. This will prevent the cicadas from reaching the leaves while still allowing light, water, and air to pass through.

In conclusion, while cicadas can cause temporary damage to your garden, they are not garden destroyers. Their emergence is a natural part of the ecosystem and can even have beneficial effects. By understanding their behavior and taking appropriate care of your plants, you can coexist with these fascinating creatures and maintain a healthy, thriving garden. So, the next time you hear the buzz of cicadas, remember that it's nature's way of saying spring is here, and new life is on the way."