The summer of cicadas has the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardners talking all about the effects of hordes of cicadas gracing the Midwest in the past month. The two species of periodical cicada broods emerged from their home in the ground in mid-May and look to have their 500-600 eggs laid inside tree branches by now. Those nymphs will fall to the ground and begin working their way into the tree root systems for their next hatch in about 13 to 17 years.

But what is the effect on our trees locally? Master Gardeners Gwen Podeschi and Sandy Cline say this was not the time to plant a new tree, as young and developing roots can be negatively impacted by the many cicadas trying to begin their journey.

Podeschi says to find white tulle, a wedding vail-like material, to wrap around a newly planted tree, protect the branches from being invaded, and avoid becoming an egg-laying location.

Pesticides against grubs applied months before the cicada invasion could have a positive effect on the health of a root system says Podeschi, and the Master Gardners note that some have even worked cicadas into food recipes.

Find more information about the cicadas in the Midwest this season by clicking here.

Sandy Cline and Gwen Podeschi appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.