Brood II of the 17 year cicada (Magicicada sp.) is expected to emerge in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic this spring. The last emergence in 1996 did not cause many problems in southern NJ counties as I recall. Brood II is one of the broods reported on the east coast. This map indicates the possibility of a broad emergence throughout the region.

Cicada’s can damage trees and shrubs by laying eggs in the twigs. Damage can be severe if the adult emergence is large (populations can be in the tens of thousands per acre!). Damage can also come from sap feeding by females. New and young plantings up to 4 years of age are generally most susceptible to damage. Emergence occurs once the soil temperature reaches 64 degrees (sometime in May in southern NJ). Growers should start scouting in late April by listening for cicada songs and looking for damage.

Information on Cicada life history for tree fruit and for wine grape can be found at:

• Periodical Cicada
• Tree Fruit Production Guide (PSU)
• Viticulture Notes (Tony Wolf)