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cicada preparation #749511

Asked May 12, 2021, 2:51 PM EDT

Hi, I read recently that the female cicadas will want to lay eggs on branches of small trees that could damage the tree as a result. Is this true? Last year we planted a weeping falls redbud and a hibiscus standard (both under 6'). Should I be putting insect netting over them just in case? Thanks! Sheri Faulkner

New Castle County Delaware

Expert Response

Hi Sheri, 

Thanks for your question.  If they are small trees/shrubs (less than 4 years old) i would recommend that you do put netting around them. 

If left un-netted and cicadas do lay eggs you will notice it as a condition called "flagging." The branch will show signs of the eggs and it will crack causing the branch to die.  

Prevent cicada bugs in small trees by covering them with netting. The netting should have a mesh size no longer than one-quarter inch (0.5 cm.). Fasten the netting around the trunk of the tree just below the canopy to prevent emerging cicadas from climbing up the trunk. Clip off and destroy flagging damage. This reduces the population of the next generation by eliminating the eggs.

Hope that helps!!

Thanks again for coming to Extension!!

Sincerely, 

J.W. Wistermayer 

UD New Castle County Master Gardener

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 12, 2021, 11:45 PM EDT
Thank you! Crossing fingers lol. 

On May 12, 2021, at 11:45 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

The Question Asker Replied May 13, 2021, 4:12 PM EDT

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