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Anything to do for my perennials with the Cicadas coming?

17 years ago

With all the news about the arrival of the Cicadas, I'm wondering if there is anything I should or shouldn't do in terms of "gardening as usual." I have a couple of old trees in my yard and some Forsynthia bushes that they'll love. But, this is the time I move/divide plants (especially the mass of Bee Balm)...is there any reason I can't do this? Or, put down mulch???

My husband said he heard that they eat everything in sight, but I've read they only dine on trees and bushes. Any suggestions or ideas...or, do I just ignore it all and have a good time!

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Comments (4)

blueheron
17 years ago
I wouldn't worry about cicadas. We had them 2 years ago and they really didn't do much damage at all. People were covering their bushes, etc., but it wasn't necessary. I don't know what they DO eat, but it wasn't anything in my garden. LOL!
marcia_m
17 years ago
Cicadas don't eat in the adult winged stage. The damage they do is from cutting slits in tree branches and some bushes to lay their eggs. The young nymphs drop to the ground and bury themselves and feed on tree roots until they are ready to emerge as adults. Pencil sized branches and young trees are at risk, but they won't harm your perennials. (We had them a few years ago here.)
Marcia

Here is a link that might be useful: article on cicadas
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If the container mix is right, you'll be off to a very good start. :) I would keep an eye on the plant in the top picture. The new leaves are coming in a little yellowish. It's not uncommon for new leaves to be lighter color, but I'm not familiar with them being that pale. Without knowing the light levels, soil mix and other factors, it would be wrong to tell you what to do at this point. other than keep an eye out. Also, I would have used a smaller pot for the little 'Sunshine Blue' plant. Smaller containers are much easier to keep watered and to move around until you find the optimal location on your lot. Better to pot up in a year or two rather than try to make the plant grow into a larger container. Those are minor nits and comments, because the plant in the bottom picture looks great.
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janicej11
Original Author
17 years ago
Thanks Blueheron and Marcia....I had read the same thing, but then heard we should be more concerned and not plant yet, etc., etc.
rusty_blackhaw
17 years ago
There was a hatch here a few years ago, and no really noticeable damage.

The cicadas are coming, hurrah, hurrah...size>

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