By Katie Martin – Smith County Extension Agent
Have you heard? Our area is due to see an increased presence of cicadas this year with Brood XIX of the 13-year periodic cicadas emerging soon. Across middle and southeastern Tennessee, residents may begin seeing adult cicadas emerge in early May when soil temperatures reach above 64 degrees Fahrenheit.
Periodical cicadas spend most of their lives, either 13 or 17 years underground (depending on the species), as immatures feeding on plant roots. After they emerge, the males start “singing’’ to attract the females which is why they are so loud. After mating, the females begin to lay eggs by making slits in twigs of woody plants using her knife-like ovipositor. Cicadas, while harmless to people and pets as they do not sting or bite, can cause damage in nurseries and newly planted orchards due to their egg-laying. Young trees are the most at risk, therefore, young, valuable shrubs, trees and ornamentals can be covered with a light, airy fabric such as cheesecloth or tobacco canvas for protection while adult cicadas are present. Ensure netting is secured around the trunk to prevent cicadas from climbing up into the tree canopy. Studies have found netting is more effective than insecticides as the periodical cicada can still cause egg-laying damage before insecticide residue kills them.
For more information about cicadas, you can check out UT Extension publication SP 341 Periodical Cicadas for more details.
For more information about any agriculture-related topic please contact the UT Extension office at 615-735-2900.
