A natural wonder will occur in 15 states this year: the emergence of the Brood X, 17-year periodical cicadas! Also known as “17-year or 13-year locusts” the last mass emergence of these insects occurred in 2004. Now, 17 years later, the immature cicadas will emerge from the ground, molt one last time to gain wings, and “sing” loudly to find mates and lay eggs in trees and woody shrubs. The good news for vegetable growers is these insects only attack deciduous woody plants, so your veggies are safe! However, if you have young ornamental, landscape, or fruit trees, these may require protection. If you want to learn more about protecting young trees from cicadas, please read this article https://fff.hort.purdue.edu/article/plan-ahead-to-protect-young-fruit-trees-from-17-year-periodical-cicadas-emerging-in-may/
