As a gardening and landscaping expert, I am often asked about the impact of cicadas on plants and whether it is necessary or beneficial to kill them. Let me start by saying that it is generally not recommended to kill cicadas. Cicadas are harmless to humans, pets, household gardens, and crops. They play a unique and important role in the ecosystem and have been around for millions of years.
Periodical cicadas, specifically, are fascinating creatures. The adults are typically around 1-1.5 inches long, with a wingspan twice that length. Their bodies are black, adorned with large red-brown eyes, and they have membranous wings with orange veins. Observing these insects can be a captivating experience, especially during their periodic emergence every 13 or 17 years.
One of the main reasons it is not advisable to kill cicadas is that they do not pose any direct threat to plants or humans. Unlike other pests such as aphids or caterpillars, cicadas do not feed on leaves or damage plants. They primarily feed on tree fluids, using their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract nutrients. This feeding behavior does not cause significant harm to plants, and the small puncture wounds they create typically heal quickly.
In fact, cicadas can even benefit plants indirectly. When female cicadas lay their eggs, they make small slits in tree branches, which can promote new growth. This can lead to increased branching and overall tree health. Additionally, the holes left behind by emerging cicadas can provide entry points for beneficial organisms like fungi and bacteria, which can contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling.
Another reason to avoid killing cicadas is the ecological role they play. Cicadas are an important food source for many birds, reptiles, and mammals. They are a natural part of the food chain and contribute to the biodiversity of an ecosystem. Removing cicadas from the environment disrupts this delicate balance and can have unintended consequences on other species.
It’s important to note that if you do encounter a large number of cicadas in your garden or yard during their emergence period, they will eventually die off on their own. Their lifespan as adults is relatively short, typically lasting only a few weeks. Instead of resorting to killing them, consider taking some simple measures to minimize any inconvenience they may cause.
For example, you can use nets or barriers to protect young or vulnerable plants from cicadas. Applying insecticides is generally not recommended, as it can have unintended negative effects on beneficial insects and other wildlife. It’s best to let nature take its course and allow the cicadas to complete their life cycle.
Killing cicadas is not necessary or beneficial. They are harmless to humans, pets, gardens, and crops. Instead of viewing them as pests, appreciate their unique life cycle and the ecological role they play. By understanding and coexisting with cicadas, we can foster a healthier and more diverse ecosystem in our gardens and landscapes.
