186K views · 1.1K reactions | Follow these expert tips before cicadas emerge to protect young trees from damage. Wrap branches in fine-mesh netting, such as tulle fabric, to keep the insects out while letting air and sunlight in. Keep it on for about six weeks until the cicadas are gone. Learn more about trees and cicadas: bit.ly/4bk0adx #cicadaseason #cicadas2024 #insects #trees #spring2024 #mortonarboretum | The Morton Arboretum | Facebook

Why do cicadas only emerge every 17 years—and what’s up with that crazy noise? Cicadas that emerge every 17 years are part of a group called periodical cicadas. Their unusually long life cycle is a survival strategy—by spending most of their lives underground and emerging all at once, they overwhelm predators through sheer numbers. The 17-year timing, a prime number, also helps avoid syncing up with predator cycles. The loud, buzzing noise they make is created by males using special organs calle