How To Keep Cicadas Away From You

How to Keep Cicadas Away From You: A Guide to Peaceful Coexistence

This summer, are you bracing yourself for the deafening chorus of cicadas? While these insects are generally harmless, their sheer numbers and persistent buzzing can be quite annoying. This article provides practical tips and strategies on how to minimize cicada encounters and enjoy your outdoor spaces without the constant drone. We'll explore deterrents, preventative measures, and even how to deal with the aftermath of their presence.

Understanding Cicada Behavior: The First Step to Repelling Them

Before diving into solutions, understanding cicada behavior is key. Cicadas are attracted to vibrant green spaces and mature trees. They prefer areas with ample sunlight and soft soil for egg-laying. Knowing this helps us target our efforts effectively. Their lifecycle involves nymph stages underground, followed by emergence as adults, mating, and finally, egg-laying.

Effective Ways to Deter Cicadas

Several methods can help keep cicadas at bay. These range from simple preventative measures to more involved deterrents:

• Netting: Protecting vulnerable trees with netting, especially younger ones, prevents cicadas from laying eggs on branches and damaging them. This is particularly effective during the egg-laying period.

• Noise Reduction: While it might seem counterintuitive, some argue that masking the sounds of other cicadas can deter them. Playing loud, low-frequency white noise or even using a fan might help to reduce their attraction to your yard.

• Bright Lights: Cicadas are less attracted to areas with intense lighting. Strategic placement of bright outdoor lights near your patio or seating area may help to keep them away.

• Natural Predators: Encouraging natural predators such as birds and lizards into your garden can help control cicada populations. Planting shrubs and flowers that attract these animals can be a sustainable long-term solution.

• Remove Debris: Keep your yard clear of debris such as fallen leaves and branches. These provide ideal hiding spots for cicadas and their nymphs.

• Ultrasonic Devices: While the effectiveness of these devices is debated, some claim that high-frequency sounds repel cicadas. This is an area where more research is needed to confirm their efficacy.

Dealing with the Aftermath: Cicada Shells and Molts

Even with preventative measures, you'll likely encounter cicada shells and molts. These are harmless remnants of their lifecycle. Simply sweep them up and dispose of them. Avoid touching them, as some people might have mild allergic reactions.

Protecting Your Plants: Preventing Damage

Cicada egg-laying can damage young trees and shrubs. Regular inspection and removal of eggs can help mitigate this issue. Protecting young plants with netting is a proactive measure.

Embrace the Season: Accepting the Inevitable

While these strategies aim to minimize cicada encounters, remember that cicadas are a natural part of the ecosystem. Their presence is temporary, and their loud buzz is a sign of a healthy environment. Embracing their brief season and appreciating their unique role in nature can make the experience more bearable.

Conclusion: Peaceful Coexistence with Cicadas

Learning to coexist with cicadas requires a combination of understanding their behavior and employing practical deterrents. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce their impact on your enjoyment of the outdoors. Remember that a multi-pronged approach combining several of these methods is often the most effective. So, embrace the summer soundscape, but take control where you can to ensure a more peaceful coexistence.