In an article from Reader's Digest, Dan Herms, vice president of research and development at the Davey Institute, shares key insights about cicadas.

Posted: May 28, 2024

It’s easy to wince thinking about the mass emergence of insects like cicadas. Their numbers can reach millions per acre, creating a near-deafening buzzing chorus. 

So it’s understandable that questions like, “Will cicadas eat my plants?” immediately spring to mind.

But cicadas are also pretty fascinating and play important roles in the ecosystem.

“Soil temperature can affect emergence,” says Daniel A. Herms, PhD, vice president of research and development at the Davey Tree Expert Company. Adult cicadas are triggered to emerge when the soil temperature at about eight inches deep reaches approximately 64 degrees Fahrenheit.”

To learn more about how cicadas impact gardens, read the rest of the article here. 

The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1880 and headquartered in Kent, Ohio, Davey has over 12,000 employees and is the ninth largest employee-owned company in the U.S. This year, Davey celebrates 45 years of employee ownership – Join us and apply today! 

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