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June 17, 2024Jefferson City, Mo. |  By: Jeremy Werner

Cicadas lead to tree damage concerns for Missourians

cicadas

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - The cicada symphony is ending, but its effects are now visible. University of Missouri Extension offices are receiving reports from homeowners about browning and dropping tree branches.

Periodical cicadas from Brood 19 have emerged after 13 years underground. Unlike annual cicadas, these adults are mating and laying eggs in tree twigs.

Each female can lay 400-600 eggs, causing damage as they create slits in the twigs. This egg-laying can result in "flagging," where damaged twigs droop, blocking water and nutrients. Some branches may break off later in storms.

Cicadas prefer trees like apple, hickory, maple, and oak, but also affect shrubs like blueberry and rose. While this damage can lead to further issues, healthy mature trees usually tolerate it well.

Those who have been impacted should consult a certified arborist for smaller, recently planted trees showing damage.

Despite the nuisance, decomposing cicadas benefit the environment by fertilizing soil, feeding wildlife, and naturally pruning trees.