As a Northeastern Illinois resident, you’ve probably experienced the recent cicada emergence firsthand. Picture this: you’re enjoying a peaceful afternoon in your home garden or taking a stroll along your commercial property when suddenly the sound of cicadas fills the air, creating a chorus so loud it could drown out a rock concert. Ah, the joys of cicada season!
These noisy critters made quite an entrance, didn’t they? From the cacophony of their calls to their sudden appearance everywhere, cicadas have been the talk of the town. Now that their reign is winding down, let’s talk about what happens next and how you can care for your landscape in the aftermath of their visit.
Nature’s Ecosystem Boosters
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to acknowledge the role cicadas play in the ecosystem. They may be a nuisance to some, but they are a feast for other animals like squirrels, opossums, and foxes. Interestingly, their emergence also leads to a spike in bird populations the following year. So, while we might grumble about their noise, cicadas are actually maintaining balance in nature.
The Aftermath
You may have noticed some damage to your mature trees where cicadas laid their eggs. This process involves the females cutting slits into tree branches to deposit their eggs, which can disrupt the vascular system of the tree. As a result, you might see tips of branches with 4-8 inches of dead leaves, a phenomenon known as “flagging.”
But fear not! Trees have a robust root system and are incredibly resilient. Your tree isn’t going to die altogether; it just needs a little TLC. Think of it as a haircut for your tree. Pruning the damaged branches will help it recover and continue to thrive.
If you put up netting to protect your trees from cicadas, now is the time to remove it. Leaving the netting on for too long can inhibit the tree’s growth and cause other issues. Once the netting is off, inspect your trees for any additional damage and consider giving them a good pruning.

Strategic Landscaping
At ILT Vignocchi, we understand the challenges that come with maintaining a beautiful landscape, especially after events like a cicada emergence. We offer comprehensive pest management and tree/plant maintenance services to keep your property looking its best year-round.
Our team stays on top of seasonal trends and uses strategic approaches to ensure your landscape remains healthy and vibrant. Whether it’s pest control, tree pruning, or planning ahead for seasonal changes, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in maintaining a stunning and healthy landscape all year long!