What are cicadas?
Cicadas are small, jumping insects that are often confused with aphids. But unlike aphids, they suck plant sap with their piercing-sucking mouthparts. There are over 50,000 species worldwide – some harmless, others dangerous for your plants.
How do you recognize a cicada infestation?
- Silvery speckles on leaves (puncture marks)
- Crippled growth due to transmitted viruses
- Sticky honeydew (excretions) that attracts ants
Are all cicadas harmful?
Counter-perspective: Not all species cause harm! Some are even beneficial:
- Dwarf leafhoppers eat fungal spores.
- Song cicadas (e.g. in southern Europe) pollinate plants.
Fighting cicadas naturally – here’s how
Preventive measures
- Mixed cultivation: Plants such as garlic or basil repel cicadas.
- Encourage beneficial insects: Birds, spiders and ladybugs eat cicada larvae.
Critical examination: Is this enough for heavy infestation? No – then active methods are needed.
Biological control
- Neem oil: Disrupts the hormone balance of insects.
- Potash soap: Blocks the larvae’s respiratory openings.
Gap inthe original text: No mention of soil hygiene – although many eggs overwinter in the substrate!
Chemicals? Better not!
- Risk: Cicadas quickly develop resistance.
- Collateral damage: Beneficial insects such as bees also die.
Alternative solution: Plant strengthening agents (e.g. with silicon) make leaves more resistant.
Conclusion
Cicadas are not a death sentence for your garden. You can keep them at bay with natural means and a little patience. Important: Monitor your plants regularly!