Will Cicadas Eat Tomato Plants?

Will Cicadas Eat Tomato Plants? Understanding the Impact

Generally, cicadas do not eat tomato plants. Adult cicadas feed primarily on tree sap, while cicada nymphs damage plants through egg-laying, not direct consumption.

Cicada Background: A Brief Overview

Cicadas are fascinating insects known for their periodic emergence and distinctive songs. There are two main types: annual cicadas, which emerge every year, and periodical cicadas, which emerge in massive broods every 13 or 17 years. These emergences can be incredibly disruptive, impacting both natural ecosystems and agricultural practices. Understanding their life cycle and feeding habits is crucial to assessing their potential impact on tomato plants.

The Cicada Life Cycle: From Egg to Adult

The cicada life cycle consists of three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult.

• Egg Stage: Female cicadas lay their eggs in tree branches and twigs, often causing damage in the process. This is where the primary threat to plants like tomato plants (indirectly) lies.
• Nymph Stage: After hatching, nymphs burrow underground and feed on plant roots for years. This stage poses a significant threat to trees and shrubs but less so to annual plants like tomatoes due to their shorter lifespan.
• Adult Stage: Once they emerge above ground, adult cicadas focus primarily on mating and reproduction. They feed on tree sap, using their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract fluids from branches.

Cicadas and Tomato Plants: The Real Threat

While adult cicadas don’t eat tomato plants, their egg-laying activities can pose a threat. Female cicadas use their ovipositors to slice into plant stems and branches to deposit their eggs. This can weaken or kill smaller tomato plants or parts of larger plants. Older, more established tomato plants may be more resistant to this damage, but younger plants are especially vulnerable.

Protecting Your Tomato Plants from Cicada Damage

Several strategies can be used to protect tomato plants from cicada damage:

• Netting: Cover your plants with fine mesh netting to physically prevent cicadas from reaching the stems.
• Avoid Planting Near Trees: Plant tomato plants away from trees and shrubs that cicadas may target for egg-laying.
• Pruning: Prune damaged branches after the cicada season to promote healthy growth.
• Timing Planting: If possible, delay planting until after the peak cicada emergence period has passed.
• Spraying: Insecticidal sprays are generally not recommended, as they can harm beneficial insects. However, if infestation is heavy, consider using a pyrethrin-based insecticide as a last resort, following label instructions carefully.

Other Potential Garden Pests of Tomatoes

Cicadas aren’t the only pests to worry about. Other common tomato pests include:

Common Mistakes in Cicada and Tomato Plant Management

• Overreacting with Pesticides: Applying broad-spectrum insecticides unnecessarily can harm beneficial insects and disrupt the ecosystem.
• Ignoring the Problem: Leaving plants unprotected during a heavy cicada emergence can lead to significant damage.
• Improper Netting: Not securing netting properly allows cicadas to find their way to the plants.
• Planting Too Late: Delaying planting excessively can shorten the growing season and reduce yield.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cicadas and Tomato Plants

Will cicadas kill my entire tomato plant?

In most cases, no. While cicada egg-laying can damage stems and branches, it’s unlikely to kill an entire mature tomato plant. However, young or smaller plants are more vulnerable. Consistent monitoring and protection methods are essential for overall plant health.

Do cicada nymphs damage tomato plants?

Cicada nymphs primarily feed on tree roots, and it’s uncommon for them to damage tomato plants directly. Their underground feeding habits are more detrimental to trees and shrubs. Tomato plants have a limited root system compared to trees and mature bushes, and they are generally harvested before cicada nymphs would have time to establish a significant feeding pattern on them.

What is the best way to protect tomato plants from cicadas without using pesticides?

Using fine mesh netting is the most effective and environmentally friendly way to protect tomato plants from cicadas. Ensure the netting is secured tightly around the plants and extends to the ground to prevent cicadas from accessing the stems.

Are some tomato varieties more resistant to cicada damage?

There is no evidence to suggest that some tomato varieties are more resistant to cicada damage than others. The primary threat comes from the physical act of egg-laying, which affects all tomato plant varieties.

When is the peak cicada emergence period?

The peak emergence period varies depending on the brood and geographic location. Generally, periodical cicadas emerge in late spring or early summer, typically from mid-May to late June. Local agricultural extension offices can provide accurate information for your specific region.

Can I transplant my tomato plants to avoid cicada emergence?

Transplanting tomato plants during cicada emergence is not recommended. The stress of transplanting can weaken the plants, making them more vulnerable to cicada damage. It’s better to protect the plants where they are.

What does cicada damage on tomato plants look like?

Cicada damage appears as small slits or punctures in the stems and branches, often in a straight line. You may also notice split or cracked stems. In severe cases, the branches may wilt or die.

Should I prune tomato plants damaged by cicadas?

Yes, pruning damaged branches is recommended. This removes the damaged tissue and encourages the plant to produce new growth. Always use clean pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease.

Will cicadas damage other plants in my garden besides tomato plants?

Cicadas will likely damage other trees and shrubs with small branches, especially fruit trees. However, they usually leave herbs and other vegetables alone. They prefer trees with trunks bigger than 1/2″ in diameter.

Are cicadas beneficial to the environment in any way?

Yes, cicadas play several important roles in the ecosystem. They aerate the soil as nymphs, and their emergence provides a significant food source for birds, reptiles, and other animals. They also add nutrients to the soil as their bodies decompose.

Can I use diatomaceous earth to control cicadas on my tomato plants?

Diatomaceous earth is not effective against adult cicadas because they do not ingest the leaves or stems. It is more effective against soft-bodied insects that chew plant foliage.

Where can I find more information about cicadas in my region?

Contacting your local agricultural extension office is the best way to get accurate and up-to-date information about cicadas in your region. They can provide information about emergence dates, affected areas, and recommended control methods.

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