Cicadas in a Nutshell: Coming to a backyard near you!

• The 17-year periodical cicadas in Brood X will begin to emerge in many areas of Maryland when the soil 8” below the surface reaches 64 degrees Fahrenheit. This may be in early May but will depend on local weather conditions.
• This is a natural and fascinating occurrence! Millions of cicadas synchronize their emergence to overwhelm predators. Adult cicadas will be active above ground for about 8 weeks.
• Cicadas are not harmful to people or pets. They are a valuable food source for birds and other animals. Do not use pesticides on them.
• Cicadas do not cause severe damage to most garden plants. Females prefer to lay eggs in young trees with branches about the diameter of a pencil up to 1/2 inch. Young trees can be protected using netting with ¼-inch or smaller openings.
• The UMD Department of Entomology Cicada Crew has excellent videos, fun cicada accessories, and answers to common questions about these fascinating insects!

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To learn more: 
extension.umd.edu/resource/cicadas