Question
Hi, Mike.  I have a question that I need to ask you; it may affect whether I garden this year or not.  There is news that in my region they're looking for a cicada swarm early this summer.  I need to know if they'll eat vegetable crops (I believe they're particularly fond of trees.)  Thanks, have a great day!

Answer
Hi Mary.

We had a cicada infestation four years ago here in Ohio.  While they did do some damage to the trees, they did not bother any of my flowers or vegetables.  They only live a few weeks above ground, so even if a few of them infest your garden, you can help prevent damage by placing reemay over the the plants.

Reemay is a lightweight, fleece-like material, similar to curtain sheers.  You can purchase it under various names at your local garden center.  It is usually referred to as row covers.  While protecting your plants, it still allows light, water, and fertilization to penetrate.  The other advantage to it is that it protects plants from light frosts.  I use it on a variety of plants to protect them from beetles and other insects.

I hope this helps.  Good luck, and have a great weekend.

Regards,

Mike