Trillions of cicadas from Brood X are beginning to emerge across the eastern United States. While we're ready for the natural phenomenon/spectacle anticipated by these periodical cicada species that have spent the last 17 years underground as nymphs, there's undoubtedly a mess to be managed as the adult cicadas molt, shout their loud mating calls, and lay eggs all around our yards, landscapes, and patios. While many are fixated on noise, it's important not to lose sight of the fact that trillions of cicada carcasses are going to cause a physical aftermath. To help those living in areas most susceptible to cicada damage, Courtney Walsh, a cleaner on home cleaning platform, Homeaglow, shared tips to prepare your home and landscape and manage the accumulation of cicada carcasses.
Protect Hard to Clean Areas
"Before the emergence of cicadas, it’s a good idea to install fine mesh or netting around areas you want to protect, such as garden beds and patios," shares Walsh. "This can prevent cicadas from dying in these spaces, making cleanup easier and protecting them from any damage during cleanup."
Consider covering delicate bushes and trees with netting (notably younger plants that would be more easily affected by these tree sap-suckers), and make sure there are screens on all your windows. Also, if you tend to keep your garage door open, it might be time for one of those fancy screen doors that your neighbors in the cul-de-sac like so much. Exoskeletons of cicadas can be a hassle to clean out from around your vehicles, bikes, and other garage accessories.
Prioritize Filter and Gutter Clean-Up
"A lot of carcasses can end up in your gutters and outdoor pipework, potentially causing flooding and other problems if they aren’t cleaned out before a wet spell," cautions Walsh. "To clean your gutters of dead cicadas, grab a bucket and carefully bring it up with you on an extension ladder. Once at the top, start scooping out carcasses with a gutter scoop, along with any other debris, into the bucket." It’s best to check for clogged-up gutters regularly during the cicada lifecycle as a proactive measure. In the same way that leaves can clog your gutters in the fall and contribute to wintertime issues including shingle damage and water damage, a buildup of cicada shells can also contribute to expensive repairs.
Similarly, this isn't the year to neglect your pool filter. Using a pool skimmer daily will keep the collection of stray cicadas at bay and reduce the likelihood of potential damage.
Clean Up Solid Surfaces
Use a leaf blower to gather carcasses from your porch, patio, sidewalk, or other high-traffic areas of your home. If you have an abundance of them in your grass, you can also use a rake to gather the shells and dispose of them (into the compost).
Compost the Remains
"If you have access to a compost bin, consider adding cicada remains to it," recommends Walsh. "Not only does this help to clear up the exoskeletons and carcasses but they’re also a good source of nitrogen and can help with the composting process." Be sure to balance the compost with other organic matter for a nutrient-rich, healthy pile.
What happens to cicada shells that don't get cleaned up?
They'll decompose! I personally wouldn't worry too much about cleaning them out of garden beds and landscaping if it's routinely cultivated and re-mulched. Let them gather, and then till them into the dirt to improve soil conditions. Focus your efforts on keeping your main outdoor spaces clean, instead.
