Will Cicadas Eat Tomato Plants?

Cicadas, also known as "locusts," are a group of insects that go through a 17-year dormancy period before emerging en masse. These insects are notorious for their loud and persistent buzzing sounds, but many gardeners wonder if cicadas will also pose a threat to their tomato plants.

Cicada Behaviour and Tomato Plants

Cicadas feed on the fluids of trees and other woody plants, typically using their piercing mouthparts to penetrate the bark and siphon off sap. Tomato plants, on the other hand, do not have the same type of bark and are not typically a food source for cicadas. Therefore, in general, cicadas are not likely to eat tomato plants or cause significant damage to them.

Indirect Effects of Cicada Emergence

While cicadas are not likely to feed on tomato plants directly, their emergence can cause indirect effects on the health of tomato plants. During the cicada swarming period, the ground can be littered with dead cicadas, which can attract rodents and other pests that can eat tomato plants. Additionally, cicadas can also indirectly reduce the overall health of trees and other plants, creating less favorable growing conditions for tomatoes and other garden vegetables.

Protecting Tomato Plants During Cicada Emergence

Despite the relatively low risk of direct feeding damage to tomato plants, gardeners may still want to take precautions to protect their crops during a cicada emergence. This can include installing physical barriers, such as netting or covers, to prevent pests from accessing the plants. Additionally, gardeners should continue to monitor their plants for signs of damage and take appropriate action, such as pruning or treatments, to maintain their tomato plants' health and productivity.

Conclusion

In summary, while cicadas are not likely to feed on tomato plants directly, their emergence can indirectly affect the health of the plants and create ideal conditions for other pests to thrive. Gardeners should take appropriate precautions to protect their tomato plants during cicada swarms and remain vigilant in monitoring their plants' health throughout the season.